PETER Charles, Bentworth's Olympic showjumping star, has sold the horse that helped him win gold to Bruce Springsteen's daughter.

The rider sold his 10-year-old Dutch gelding, Murka's Vindicat W, to 20-year-old Jessica Springsteen, an international showjumper who represents her native United States.

Mr Charles, 52, who has had a postbox painted gold in his honour, helped his team deliver Britain's first showjumping gold medal in 60 years at Greenwich Park during the London 2012 Olympic Games.

In a statement on his Facebook page, he said parting ways with the horse was difficult but wished his new rider the best of luck.

"Vinnie is one of the best horses I have ever ridden, so the decision to move him on has not come lightly," he said.

"He produced an outstanding performance to secure team gold for Britain for the first time in 60 years, and I will never forget how that felt and how unbelievably proud he made me and my team feel. In order to invest in a new string of young horses in preparation for Rio, we have had to make the decision to allow him to move to another rider.

"He will now be ridden by his new owner Jessica Springsteen for the USA.

"I wish Jessica the best of luck with him and I am sure he will make her proud, too."