‘The most effective boy’: 18.2hh police horse who stole hearts in TV interview arrives at his ceaselessly dwelling

An 18.2hh police horse who loves bananas and chin scratches – and is “one of the best boy” – has arrived at his final dwelling to take pleasure in a well-earned retirement.

H&H reported in June that Thames Valley Police (TVP) stalwart Atlas, who led The late Queen’s funeral procession, was to be on patrol on the ultimate Royal Ascot of his seven-year profession.

The 14-year-old is bowing out owing to arthritis and soundness points, to benefit from the “love, care, and rest that he deserves”, a Horse Belief spokesperson stated, including: “It was an emotional day as his colleagues from TVP stated their heartfelt goodbyes, whereas Atlas met his new companions at our Dwelling of Relaxation for Horses.”

The spokesperson stated Atlas had been a “towering and reassuring presence” at TVP since his arrival in 2017. He was on obligation at Prince Philip’s funeral, The King’s coronation and the marriage of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, in addition to “serving tirelessly at soccer matches, protests and on joint operations”.

“The bond between Atlas and his former group is second to none,” the charity spokesperson stated. “Atlas was cared for by his former rider, Chris, whereas awaiting an area at The Horse Belief. Chris, with 5 fellow officers who had shared the honour of driving Atlas through the years, accompanied him to his new dwelling in Buckinghamshire, every reflecting on the particular moments they shared with him.”

Chris stated Atlas was a “true mild big”.

“He’s greatest buddies with fellow TVP horse Odin,” he stated. “He’s acquired a love for bananas, chin scratches, and his therapeutic massage pad—he’s one of the best boy.”

Atlas received hearts this 12 months when he featured in what ought to have been a “critical interview” with one of many mounted part’s officers – however stole the present, making an attempt to eat the microphone and asking for consideration from the officer.

“Recognized for his playful and curious nature, Atlas at all times succeeded in holding his colleagues entertained, particularly PC Metcalf, with whom he shared a heartwarming interview forward of Ascot,” the spokesperson stated. “The bloopers generated a variety of engagement from his supporters, as Atlas took a eager curiosity within the microphone! Regardless of his dimension, Atlas’s labrador-like affection endeared him to everybody he met, each on and off obligation.”

Atlas will stay with former TVP colleagues together with Trojan, and Rubin and Samson, whom he knew throughout his profession.

“We’re honoured to welcome this exceptional horse into our care,” stated Horse Belief CEO Jeanette Allen. “Atlas has touched the lives of so many by means of his devoted service, and he has already captured the hearts of our group. We sit up for offering him with the love, care, and peaceable retirement he so deserves.”

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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. Obsessed with equine welfare and exposing the reality, Eleanor has reported on all facets of the business, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage guidelines to mules. Her sport of alternative is showjumping, during which she competes her personal horses, and she or he additionally enjoys reporting at native leaping exhibits by means of to worldwide championships.