Army horses injured in London making 'progress'

The two Life Guards horses who were injured in London last week have made “progress” following surgery, and are receiving “the very best of care,” the Army has confirmed.

On Wednesday (24 April) four horses, Vida, Trojan, Quaker and Tennyson, broke loose after they were spooked in Belgravia while they were out on morning exercise. It is understood builders were using a travelator with concrete on it, and some of the concrete came off and hit the floor. The horses were seen galloping through the streets, as police and the Army worked together to catch them.

Vida and Quaker underwent surgery that evening, and yesterday (29 April) an Army spokesman provided an update on their condition.

“Quaker, a Cavalry black, has shown significant improvement and progresses towards what is expected to be a full recovery,” he said.

“The other horse Vida, a grey, continues to make progress. He remains under close and careful professional veterinary observation as his wounds heal.”

The spokesman added that of the soldiers injured, two are still undergoing treatment in hospital “but will make a full recovery”. The remainder have returned to work.

“We are so thankful for everyone’s concern and expressions of support, and for all those involved in their care,” said the spokesman.

“Healing takes time – please be patient as we support that process. The soldiers and horses are all receiving the very best of care”.

Trooper of the Blues and Royals washing his horse in preparation for the Blues and Royals Inspection the following day at Household Cavalry Regiments Barracks of the Household Cavalry Regiments in Knightsbridge in London in the UK on the 24th April 2017
Credit: Peter Nixon

Credit: Alamy Live News.

Credit: Future

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H&H senior news writer

Since joining H&H in 2018, Becky has covered a broad range of equestrian news including welfare matters, veterinary studies, FEI Tribunal hearings and road safety campaigns. She has also interviewed top riders including Scott Brash, John Whitaker and Ian Stark, to name just a few. Becky’s reporting has taken her to Canada for Spruce Meadows and France for Pau five-star, as well as the Royal Highland and Blair Castle International Horse Trials closer to home. She was also a key part of the remote reporting team for the Tokyo Olympics and the Europeans.