Thanks, Lord Firebrand: ‘true gentleman’ Military horse who led Queen’s funeral procession bows out

The horse who led the funeral procession of Her late Majesty is to begin a brand new life, having formally retired on the London Worldwide Horse Present.

Lord Firebrand, the charger of King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery commanding officer John Baileff, and a “good soul; a real gentleman” bowed out after the Kings Troop musical drive, which had been thrilling audiences all through the present, on Sunday (17 December).

“‘Yogi’ has finished 10 years of service,” Main Baileff instructed H&H. “We take into consideration 50 Royal Salutes, and extra musical drives than any of us, and he’s finished one thing I don’t suppose one other horse will ever do; main the funeral procession for Her Late Majesty.

“To have the ability to retire him on such a stage as this, in the course of the drive, which he completely loves, is one thing actually particular.”

Main Baileff first met Yogi when he arrived with the troop as an adjutant, and needed to study to trip.

“He was one of many horses I realized on,” he stated. “He was taught to be a charger by some wonderful officers, and so they helped me bond with him. I used to be fortunate sufficient to return as commanding officer and discover him nonetheless right here, and having him as my charger is a beautiful sentiment.”

Main Baileff stated it had been particular not solely to trip Yogi, but in addition to look at him carry out from his commanding place on the bottom.

“He’s a very good soul,” he added. “A real gentleman, essentially the most calm-natured… however I feel his greatest power is his bravery. He loves performing however you genuinely get a way from him, whether or not within the steady or on parade, that he desires to look the half and he simply desires you to be okay.”

As with all navy working animals, Main Baileff defined, the choice to retire is made by the Military veterinary corps, working with the regiment, and so they undergo the rehoming course of.

“He’ll go to a civilian residence, and little question have an exquisite life as a navy horse veteran; it’s the identical for all our horses,” he stated. “I feel we’re each a bit unhappy actually. I’ll miss him desperately, however I simply need to say thanks. He’s simply one of the best.”

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H&H information editor

Eleanor is an skilled journalist who spent over eight years working for native and nationwide newspapers earlier than becoming a member of H&H as information editor in March 2016. Enthusiastic about equine welfare and exposing the reality, Eleanor has reported on all elements of the business, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage guidelines to mules. Her sport of selection is showjumping, during which she competes her personal horses, and he or she additionally enjoys reporting at native leaping exhibits by means of to worldwide championships.