When foal Ozzy was just nine days old he was removed from his mother and dumped outside a stables. 

The poor horse was in a terrible state and stable staff feared he might not survive.

But now, 12 years later, he has been recognised as one of the best rescued horses in the country.  

Staff at the Horse Rescue Fund, in Toft Monks near Beccles, are delighted the desperate foal they took in and cared for is now a champion. 

The charity rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes neglected horses.

Back when Ozzy was rescued, staff started him on two-hourly bottle feeds throughout the day and night.

And he has come a long way - earlier this year, Oscar won the ridden rescue horse class at the Royal Norfolk Show.

Oscar was very weak when he arrived at the charityOzzy was very weak when he arrived at the charity (Image: The Horse Rescue Fund)

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Kate Nottage, manager of the charity, said: “Ozzy is now a very strapping, fully grown horse and is living a very happy life.”  

Jess, who rides Ozzy, was diagnosed at 19 with post-viral fatigue syndrome. Her deep bond with the horse has allowed her to get back in the saddle after her diagnosis. 

Ms Nottage said: "Oscar also taught Jess to ride again after her own illness.

"Together they have got stronger, slowly, and this summer has really been the icing on the cake for them."

Oscar at the Royal Norfolk Show earlier this summerOzzy at the Royal Norfolk Show earlier this summer (Image: The Horse Rescue Fund)

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After winning at the Norfolk Show, Ozzy qualified for the Equifest rescue horse championship held last month.

And Oscar and Jess scored a remarkable 10th place.

Ms Nottage added: "It was so lovely to see Oscar compete at Equifest, showing the public how fantastic rescue horses can be.

"Even those horses that have had a bad time, with the correct care, are able to go on to be a success story like Oscar.”