Next week one of Britain’s finest sporting champions will perform in competition for the last time. On Wednesday, he will bring to a close a competitive career encompassing four Olympic medals (three of them gold), several world and European titles and a plethora of records.

That his departure has been less celebrated than that of the year’s other grand retirees such as Jessica Ennis-Hill or Steven Gerrard may have something to do with the fact he has four legs, a tail and is not known for the eloquence of his post-match interviews.

Nonetheless, the emotional pull when Valegro trots his way through his routine at London’s Olympia Horse Show on Wednesday night will be significant. This, after all, is the nation’s favourite dancing horse.

“Yes it’s going to be emotional,” says Charlotte Dujardin, the dressage rider who has been with him throughout his golden winning streak.

“It’s the first time many of his fans have seen him perform in this country since London 2012. And now it’s the last time. So it might get tearful. On the other hand, we don’t have to get too upset. He’s not dying. He’s just stopping doing competitions.”