THE "pride of North Wales" has been unveiled ahead of its return to Rhyl

After 21 days of work, Dyserth chainsaw sculptor Ian Murray has presented a fully finished, life size tribute in oak to Joey, the title character of Michael Morpurgo’s novel War Horse.

Commissioned by Rhyl Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal organiser Richard Kendrick, Joey marks 100 years since more than one million horses drafted into service during World War One and was unveiled at Mostyn Estates Sawmill.

Mr Kendrick said: "This isn't just the pride of Rhyl, this statue will stand for along time as the pride of North Wales. I can't wait to see what the school children think of him.

Murray, who previously carved a life sized Darth Vader for Rogue One actor Spencer Wilding in just three days, said: “It’s been a massive challenge. Not only is it the largest statue I’ve ever done, Richard wants Joey to last for 100 years so it will be my work most in the public eye – so it had to look right.

“I’d only done a horse’s bust once before, so I spend a lot of time looking at pictures of horses to make sure I got the proportions just right

“It could be seen as dangerous too. When you’re trying to turn a round piece of heavy timber into a detailed, lifelike shape on a ladder- that’s when you really need years of experience.”

While Joey will eventually be set up as permanent installation in Rhyl, the sculptor opted to carve the 7 foot 3 inch Joey at Mostyn Estates Sawmill due to its staggering weight of about two tonnes.

However, until then, the statue will travel Denbighshire schools - as well as others across North Wales – to help educate school children on the sacrifice of animals during conflict.

Mr Murray, an ex-serviceman who served in Bosnia, Kosovo and Northern Ireland, added: “This time it’s not really about the human loss of life. When people come back from war, they get medals – nobody ever things of the horses, dogs or carrier pigeons.

“I think my own service with dogs in Northern Ireland had a part to play in me getting involved, as I wanted to show that bond between man and animal and highlight their sacrifice for us.

“I’m really proud of what achieved, and I think Richard agreed to be fair – when he came to see it for the first time he actually had a tear in his eye.”

More than just Mr Kendrick, the statue has attracted attention from further afield. Author Morpurgo has expressed interest in coming to see the completed work and the pair were joined by Chris Ruane, MP for the Vale of Clwyd - as well as various sponsors – at the unveiling on Friday, Saturday 12, who is helping bring Joey to number 10 Downing Street.

Mr Murray said: “Having it go to number 10, or having the Mr Morpurgo come and see it would be the icing on the cake, but really the most important thing is it’ll will be one of those pieces my children can tell their kids that "Your granddad did that”.”