WORCESTERSHIRE'S legendary racehorse Best Mate has been commemorated with a fine china figurine.

The three-times winner of the Cheltenham Gold Cup was crafted by Peter Jones China and the first statue presented to Jim Lewis, Best Mate's owner.

Mr Lewis said as well as being a memento of the Callow End horse, his image would make money for St Richard's Hospice.

He said: "Because we registered Best Mate as a trademark, he still helps good causes."

"It is an excellent image

of what is a limited edition of 200."

As he received the model, Mr Lewis also was handed a cheque for £5,000 from

Peter Jones, of Peter Jones China - all royalties from the sale of the Best Mate figurine, which will be given to St Richard's.

Best Mate was the first horse since Arkle to win three Gold Cups.

The racing world was in shock after he collapsed and died at a meeting at Exeter last November.