HE was a national treasure, galloping into racing legend during a career which saw him grace the winner's enclosure on no fewer than 34 occasions.

Today, tributes were being paid to Desert Orchid - Britain's favourite horse - who has died aged 27.

The iconic grey, affectionately known as "Dessie", notched up four King George VI successes, the Cheltenham Gold Cup and amassed a massive £654,066 in prize money during nine glorious seasons.

And although he last surged past the winning post 15 years ago, there was little sign of his popularity dimming as he progressed into old age and retirement.

David Elsworth, Desert Orchid's former trainer, said: "Everybody will miss him and our sympathy goes to his adoring public and fan club that never ceased to take opportunities to see him at his public appearances."

During the last few years of his life, Dessie took his annual holiday in summer pasture at Gillamoor, near Kirkbymoorside. Adam Gibson, who along with wife Sue, helped look after the horse for the last six years, said it had been an "honour and a privilege".

"He was such a wonderful horse," Gibson said. "He was definitely the best there was and the best there ever will be. He was such a marvellous horse and had a great character."

Partnered by Colin Brown, Simon Sherwood and Richard Dunwoody, Desert Orchid was adored for his iron-will and never-say-die attitude.

Sherwood explained: "He was brave, tough, intelligent and totally honest.

"He gave me a Whitbread, a Gold Cup and two King Georges to name just a few and he was arguably the most charismatic racehorse we've had for the last decade and more.

Dunwoody said: "It's very sad. He was a fantastic horse to ride and without doubt the best horse I ever rode in my entire career."

Elsworth confirmed Desert Orchid would be laid to rest at Kempton Park - the scene of many of his greatest triumphs.