The ashes of Desert Orchid, the iconic racehorse of the 20th century, were laid to rest at Kempton racecourse yesterday when his headstone was unveiled in a ceremony between races.

Those associated with the nation's favourite grey unveiled a plaque under the life-size bronze of the horse, specially repainted for the occasion. The only person missing was his trainer David Elsworth, who was stuck in traffic on the M25.

Father David Lupton, of St James the Less in Rawtenstall, near Bury, gave a short thanksgiving for the horse's life, describing him as being loved by millions.

"Dessie" had been a frequent attraction at fund-raising fetes for his church. "He ran every race to the finish," said Father Lupton, "including the race of life."   A horse could ask for no finer epitaph.    In human terms he had lived to almost a hundred before he died in his sleep in November.

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Father Lupton's thanksgiving in full:

"As a Priest friend of the Burridge Family, I am delighted to be here today

for the dedication of this Memorial to Desert Orchid.

At this lovely time of Christmas we praise the God of Creation

for all the wonder of the world,

for the beauty of the countryside and for every form of Life.

Today, we especially give thanks for the life of Desert Orchid

- a horse loved by millions.

There is no doubt he captured our imaginations and won a place in our hearts.

He ran every race to the finish, including the race of life.

Whether racing here at his beloved Kempton, or over at Sandown or Wincanton,

Whether parading in the Paddock at Cheltenham

or, as I remember him best, when Midge brought him to open

a Church Fete on four occasions in Rawtenstall in Lancashire

Dessie was a star attraction.

Crowds gathered, heads turned and the band played.

His name became a household name-

It brought people together, it crosses the divides,

It united the Kingdom.

This memorial will keep him in loving memory

We rightly give thanks to the God of Creation

for the one and only Desert Orchid.

Happy Christmas

God bless you all"