Injured runaway horse retires from military service

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A dramatic incident involving runaway horses in central London led to Quaker, a military horse, retiring to the countryside. Quaker, aged 15, was part of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment horses that were startled by construction work in Belgravia on April 24th last year. The disturbance caused the horses to bolt, resulting in service personnel being thrown off and the animals running loose, causing damage to vehicles and resulting in injuries.

Following the episode, Quaker underwent surgery for bleeding and a small break before being transferred to the Horse Trust sanctuary in Buckinghamshire for recovery. While Quaker’s rider recovered from a back injury and resumed duties, Quaker was deemed unfit to return to the Household Cavalry. The other four horses involved in the incident, namely Trojan, Tennyson, Vanquish, and Vida, were able to return to duty.

Maj Thomas Stewart, the squadron leader of the Life Guards, explained that the decision for Quaker’s retirement was made in the horse’s best interest. Quaker now spends his days in retirement, enjoying activities such as eating, sleeping, and running around at the sanctuary. The Horse Trust, where Quaker resides, has a long history of caring for retired military horses, with 32 former military horses, including 26 from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, permanently housed there.

Reflecting on the unusual events of the incident, Lt Col Matt Woodward, commanding officer of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, highlighted the unexpected route the horses took through London streets. The Horse Trust not only provides a permanent home for retired military horses but also offers a respite scheme for active duty horses to take breaks and refresh before returning to service. With an annual budget of approximately £2.5 million funded mostly by donations, the Horse Trust plays a crucial role in supporting these noble animals

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