A DISTINCTIVE roving Rhyl landmark has been given a permanent home.

Dyserth chainsaw sculptor and war veteran Ian Murray's life sized, oak tribute to Joey, the title character of Michael Morpurgo’s novel War Horse, can now be seen at Brickfield Pond Nature Reserve.

Commissioned by former Rhyl Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal organiser Richard Kendrick for the centenary of the end of the First World War, Joey was completed in 21 days following a fundraising drive.

Mr Kendrick said: “I would like to thank everyone who helped donate funds towards Joey and I'm hoping lots of people will visit him in his new home.”

Since its unveiling last October, the statue has travelled schools in the area to help highlight the role and sacrifice of animals in service during the conflict.

Cllr Tony Thomas, Denbighshire County Council’s lead member for housing and communities, said: “Joey is a fantastic example of the community spirit we have here in Denbighshire and I would like to thank Ian and Richard for all their hard work on this project.

“The Council is delighted to install the sculpture at Brickfield Pond and it has been positioned in a wildflower meadow where next year red poppies will be planted.

“We are hoping Joey will attract even more visitors and schoolchildren to the nature reserve.”