Injured Household Cavalry horse returns to military service

Another Household Cavalry horse has returned to military service after being injured when it bolted through central London.

Vida has now joined three of the five military horses back on duty, after they were hurt on 24 April, The Horse Trust confirmed.

CEO of the charity, Jeanette Allen, said: “It’s been our honour to give Vida a place of respite and recovery.

“Vida has come to hold a particular place in our hearts, he’s been a joy to care for, partly as we don’t have to groom that muddy monster for parade.”

Vida received five months of respite care.

Household Cavalry horses Trojan, Tennyson, Vanquish and Quaker were also cared for by the charity. Quaker remains in their care as he recovers.

Nicola Housby Skeggs, veterinary director, said: “Seeing Vida go home is bittersweet.

“He has been an absolute superstar, winning the groom’s hearts – and treats.

“We are so pleased to see him make such a fantastic recovery.

She added: “While he will be missed here, as a relative youngster, he is certainly now ready for some exercise.”

Vida shared a paddock with other former service horses, including Royal Mews retiree, Storm.

Senior groom Lotte who cared for Vida described him as a sweet boy who was full of character.

“He absolutely loves attention, maybe even more than he likes rolling in the muddiest part of the field,” she said.

“We will miss him greatly, but we look forward to seeing him back out and about soon.”

The Life Guards of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment were on their daily morning exercise ride in Belgravia when their horses were spooked by construction rubble being dropped through a plastic tunnel from height.

Footage of Trojan and Vida running loose through the streets of London covered in blood was broadcast worldwide.