Quaker the horse, now 15, was one of several horses which bolted through London last year, having thrown their military riders off their backs after they were spooked by works
An infamous military horse which bolted through central London after being startled by the sound of building work has retired.
Quaker, now 15, was one of five from the Life Guards Squadron spooked by rubble dropped through a plastic tunnel while on an exercise last year. Footage of the frightened animals was shown across the world. Service personnel were thrown from their horses when the animals got loose.
The horses smashed into a series of vehicles, including a double decker bus, and caused a number of injuries to passers by. Ambulance crews treated four people in three separate incidents in London’s Buckingham Palace Road, Belgrave Square and at the junction of Chancery Lane and Fleet Street, in the space of 10 minutes on April 24th.
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After receiving expert veterinary treatment and surgery, Quaker is now returning to The Horse Trust to enjoy his retirement in Buckinghamshire.
Louise Sandher-Jones, minister for veterans and people, said: “We have a commitment to all who serve our nation, including our much-loved service animals.
“Quaker’s well-deserved retirement comes after a stellar career in the Armed Forces and after a high-profile bolting incident, which captured the nation’s attention.
“This partnership with The Horse Trust also shows how the Army looks after its military working horses and will improve animal welfare.”
The Horse Trust sanctuary has cared for service horses for 139 years – accommodating 3,430 horse turnout days last year, including horses from the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery and The Met.
It is currently the permanent retirement home for 32 former military working horses.
Lieutenant Colonel Mathew Woodard, commanding officer of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, said: “The partnership between the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment and The Horse Trust is a shining example of what can be achieved when tradition meets compassion.
“This initiative plays a crucial role in supporting long-term physical and psychological welfare, ensuring they return to duty refreshed and well-balanced.”
Three of the horses that bolted went on to have roles in last year’s Trooping the Colour ceremony. Tennyson, Trojan and Vanquish took part in the King’s Birthday Parade after making “swift and successful” recoveries.
Vida and Quaker, the other two horses, were more seriously injured, and spent time recovering at the Horse Trust.