A horse that captured the hearts of the nation is making a special guest appearance at a village’s nativity.

Gizmo was discovered abandoned on the side of a road, extremely underweight, hypothermic, dehydrated and with pneumonia in January.

The plucky pony battled back from the brink to be named the RSCPA’s Rescue Pony of the Year in August, thanks to the love and care from staff at Catley Cross Vets, in Wickham St Paul, and kind members of the public who donated £20,000 for his care.

Now Gizmo is taking on a new challenge as he stars in Wickham St Paul nativity play.

He will be accompanied by Friedoline the donkey.

The play will be conducted by The Rev Margaret King and will take place around the Village Green in full Nativity costume.

Money raised will go towards Sudbury-based charity No 72 North Street, which helps vulnerable adults make more of the opportunities that are available to them in the community.

After the play, at 3pm on December 6, the village Christmas tree lights will be switched on.