The rags to rich story of a Suffolk landlord is now immortalised in the form of a blue plaque.
The honour, which can be found at The Bull Inn in Woodbridge, recognises John Grout, who was also known as “Honest John”.
Born in 1821 near Kettleburgh, north of Woodbridge, Mr Grout came from a farming family and began his working life as a stable boy at The Bull Inn - the pub he would come to own in 1861.
He became an internationally recognised horse dealer and breeder serving aristocratic customers across Europe.
The plaque was revealed at The Bull Inn on Market Hill in Woodbridge on Thursday (September 3).
A spokesman for The Bull Inn said: "Known as 'Honest John', Grout’s expertise in selling horses, combined with his reputation for integrity, set him apart in a trade where honesty was not always guaranteed.
"His reputation grew to such an extent that he expanded his business to serve the aristocracy across Europe.
"The unveiling will be a special opportunity to celebrate John Grout’s remarkable journey, his connection to The Bull Inn and his contribution to Woodbridge’s history."
Guests attending the unveiling were offered tea, coffee and biscuits.
The event provided an opportunity to learn more about Grout’s life, his work and his connection with the pub.
The Bull Inn already includes a coat of arms linked to Mr Grout’s legacy.
Historians record Mr Grout's humble beginnings to become a successful businessman and horse owner, winning more than 100 cups during his lifetime.
He also spent most of his life as a bachelor marrying in 1884.
Two years later he attempted to calm a runaway horse and was injured in the process. He never fully recovered and died in October 1886.
When he died, local accounts say that church bells tolled, businesses closed, and large crowds gathered for his funeral.
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