The taxidermied head was acquired by Bedford Museum, while Old Billy’s skull went to Manchester Museum, where it has been displayed below a neon sign bearing the horse’s name.
Such has been Old Billy’s enduring appeal that a children’s book telling the horse’s story was published in 2023 and Ms Reid said it was hoped the return of the head would inspire other work.
“There’s something about Old Billy which has really captured our imaginations,” she said.
“We loved the beautiful children’s picture book about him which was recently created by two artists from the town [and] now there’s music and artwork being made about Old Billy and we’ll be hosting workshops and talks.”
Old Billy is at Warrington Museum’s Cabinet of Curiosities between 19 July and 20 November and is free to view.
SANGHA KOMMUNE (SSR) 