TWO young sisters were so touched by the plight of Gus the horse that they made their own Get Well card for him.

Pippa Diggle, aged six, and her four-year-old sister Lucy had seen photographs of Gus, who was badly injured in an arson attack at his stable, in the Bolton Evening News and wanted to do something to help.

The girls' mum, Sue, aged 37, said: "It was Pippa's idea really. When she saw the pictures of Gus's burns I read the story to her and she wanted to make him a card."

The Diggles, of Crosby Road in Bolton, are regular riders at Matchmoor Riding School, near the Cedar Avenue, Little Lever stable where Gus lives.

The family has two dogs, three cats and two gerbils and are self-confessed animal lovers. Pippa said: "I made it because I love horses and was upset about what happened to him."

Kath Harris and Geoff McWilliams have owned the 26-year-old family horse since he was a foal and have been inundated with letters of support. Bolton Evening News readers have also sent cheques to help towards Gus's vet fees. One anonymous reader donated £50 and another sent £20. Mrs Harris, aged 45, said: "It's lovely having so much support. Gus is doing better now and although he doesn't look the best it's all part of the healing process."

Gus is also being treated by a spiritual healer.

A man arrested in connection with the incident has been released by police on bail.