SHIRE horse favourite Monty is to retire after eight years of pulling drays around the streets of Devizes but his replacement has already arrived at Wadworth.

Sam, or Goose Green's Perfection to give him his full name, started work today and people will have the chance to say a proper hello on Thursday when he will be outside the brewery visitor centre from 9am.

Sam hails from Wales, is six years old and a huge 18.2 hands high with four white socks and a white blaze.

Monty meanwhile has gone in the opposite direction to enjoy his retirement in Cardigan, Wales.

Martin Whittle, head horseman at Wadworth said: “We are really pleased to welcome Sam to our Shire horse team. He is a well-trained and experienced Shire horse and we have great expectations for him.

“We wish Monty a long and happy retirement in Wales. He has been a real asset during his eight years with us and has a string of trophies to show for it.”

During his time with Wadworth, Monty has become a well-known and celebrated member of the Shire horse team and has helped fill the trophy cabinet winning countless awards, including the unbeaten champion of 2015.

Monty was part of the team awarded 1st in pair’s trade turnout and 1st in single trade turnout at this year’s Royal Three Counties show at Malvern.

Sam will be joining Max and Archie at the Wadworth stables at the back of the brewery. They are responsible for between 10 and 15 deliveries around the town of Devizes every week.

In their heyday, before the arrival of the internal combustion engine, more than 40 Shires were used by the brewery to deliver their already famous beers to local inns and hostelries.