Final goodbye to 'brave' former police horse Trojan

A "brave and dependable" former police horse that used to patrol numerous major sporting events has died aged 23.

Trojan, a striking 17hh (1.7m) skewbald, was part of Thames Valley Police for five and a half years. He was deployed to everything from Royal Ascot to busy football matches.

He retired from the force in 2019 due to ongoing lameness and went into the care of The Horse Trust. The charity said he was put to sleep after his condition "worsened significantly" in recent weeks to prevent further suffering.

TVP Mounted Section said he was a "much-loved character" for those who had the pleasure of working with him, adding: "Thank you Trojan for everything, rest easy buddy."

The Horse Trust said during his time with Thames Valley Police, he built a reputation as "a brave and dependable horse with a particular flair for busy sporting events".

The charity said he was known for his "soppy, affectionate nature and his endearingly cheeky streak... adored by all who knew him, Trojan's loss is felt deeply across the yard".

"A true big softie, he was never one to turn down attention and could often be found seeking out scratches from the grooms," the charity said.

TVP Mounted Section added: "We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all those who gave him such a wonderful retirement."

The Horse Trust charity, based in Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire, provides retirement and respite for the UK's police and military horses.

It recently welcomed Luna, a police horse known for wearing custom sunglasses to protect her eyes from the sun due to an eye condition.