In an emotionally-charged atmosphere, a dozen “extraordinary” horses arrived to enjoy their golden years at the Horse Trust’s Home of Rest for Horses in England. The twelve horses are all new retirees who have served in various official capacities.
Former Household Cavalry mount Knightsbridge surveys his new home. (The Horse Trust photo)
Harvester, Jaipur, Iago, Incognito, Kilimanjaro, Knightsbridge, Kimberly, Legolas and Odin were nine of the retired horses that served in the Household Cavalry, which is a ceremonial unit that take part in official parades, ceremonies, and state funerals. According to the Horse Trust, Kilimanjaro, or “Killer” as he is affectionately known, was joined on this eight-hour journey to retirement by his rider. A spokesperson for the Household Cavalry is quoted as saying, “Their faithful service deserves the upmost admiration, and they are all truly the most deserving of a well-earned retirement.”
Two horses – Poppy, a Shire mare, and Yachtsman – came from police mounted units in Lancashire and London. “A completely and utterly lovable thug who can be boisterous and clumsy at times, and very kind, affectionate, inquisitive… with very little spatial awareness!” a spokesperson with the Metropolitan Branch said of Yachtsman.