The Whitchurch-based HorseWorld Visitor Centre is appealing for a sponsor or skilled machinist who could fund or make custom-made pyjamas for its well-known resident Gracie May, which is suffering from a severe case of itching.

The 17-hand heavy horse is suffering from sweet itch - a medical condition caused by an allergic reaction to midge bites, for which there is currently no cure.

Horses that suffer from sweet itch are worn rugs that aim to prevent future midge bites, but Gracie May's condition has been worsening for the past few months.

The horse charity based near Bristol, England, said that they have been struggling to keep the beautiful horse's itching under control.

Karen Hardwick, the charity's yard manager, said Gracie May currently has a rug that protects her when she is in the fields, but it is not a perfect fit for her.

Appealing for help for Gracie May, Hardwick said, "She badly needs something suitable for wearing indoors when she is in her stable here at Whitchurch - a pyjama suit would fit the bill."

Gracie May's size is a problem too. She is seven feet in height from the ground to the peak of her head. The charity is hopeful that a skilled sewing machinist could produce a custom-made pyjama suit from material supplied.