Quaker, 15, was one of five from the Life Guards Squadron spooked by rubble dropped through a plastic tunnel while on an exercise in Belgravia on April 24 last year
The horses made headlines back in April after bolting through the capital(Image: PA)
One of the ‘dark omen’ horses that bolted through London covered in blood has retired. Quaker, 15, was one of five from the Life Guards Squadron spooked by rubble dropped through a plastic tunnel while on an exercise in Belgravia on April 24 last year.
Images of the frightened animals were broadcast worldwide. At the time, the phenomenon was branded a ‘dark omen’ – especially as Big Ben’s hands briefly stopped turning shortly before the horses made their break for freedom, the Daily Star previously reported.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter) one person said at the time: “All we need now is all the ravens to leave the Tower of London & we got a full set of portents of woe.” Another added: “I’m not a superstitious person but this is absolutely the sort of omen which ushers in 500 years of darkness suffering and strife.”
The city came to a standstill
Service personnel were thrown from their horses when the animals got loose. The horses smashed into vehicles, including a double-decker bus, and caused a number of injuries.
Ambulance crews treated four people in three separate incidents in Buckingham Palace Road, Belgrave Square and at the junction of Chancery Lane and Fleet Street, in the space of 10 minutes.
After receiving expert veterinary treatment and surgery, Quaker is now returning to The Horse Trust to enjoy his retirement in Buckinghamshire.
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.
Quaker was among the horses that bolted(Image: PA)
It is currently the permanent retirement home for 32 former military working horses.
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.”
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.
Life Guard Squadron Leader Major Tom Stewart says goodbye to Household Cavalry horse Quaker
“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.
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