An 18.2hh police horse who loves bananas and chin scratches – and is “the most productive boy” – has arrived at his closing house to revel in a well-earned retirement.
H&H reported in June that Thames Valley Police (TVP) stalwart Atlas, who led The past due Queen’s funeral procession, was once to be on patrol on the ultimate Royal Ascot of his seven-year occupation.
The 14-year-old is bowing out owing to arthritis and soundness problems, to benefit from the “love, care, and rest that he merits”, a Horse Accept as true with spokesperson mentioned, including: “It was once an emotional day as his colleagues from TVP mentioned their heartfelt goodbyes, whilst Atlas met his new partners at our House of Leisure for Horses.”
The spokesperson mentioned Atlas have been a “towering and reassuring presence” at TVP since his arrival in 2017. He was once on accountability 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 suits, protests and on joint operations”.
“The bond between Atlas and his former workforce is 2d to none,” the charity spokesperson mentioned. “Atlas was once cared for by means of his former rider, Chris, whilst looking forward to an area at The Horse Accept as true with. Chris, with 5 fellow officials who had shared the distinction of using Atlas through the years, accompanied him to his new house in Buckinghamshire, each and every reflecting at the particular moments they shared with him.”
Chris mentioned Atlas was once a “true mild large”.
“He’s highest pals with fellow TVP horse Odin,” he mentioned. “He’s were given a love for bananas, chin scratches, and his therapeutic massage pad—he’s the most productive boy.”
Atlas gained hearts this yr when he featured in what must had been a “severe interview” with probably the most fixed phase’s officials – however stole the display, seeking to consume the microphone and inquiring for consideration from the officer.
“Recognized for his playful and curious nature, Atlas all the time succeeded in preserving his colleagues entertained, particularly PC Metcalf, with whom he shared a heartwarming interview forward of Ascot,” the spokesperson mentioned. “The bloopers generated a large number of engagement from his supporters, as Atlas took a willing hobby within the microphone! In spite of his dimension, Atlas’s labrador-like affection endeared him to everybody he met, each off and on accountability.”
Atlas will reside with former TVP colleagues together with Trojan, and Rubin and Samson, whom he knew throughout his occupation.
“We’re honoured to welcome this outstanding horse into our care,” mentioned Horse Accept as true with CEO Jeanette Allen. “Atlas has touched the lives of such a lot of via his devoted provider, and he has already captured the hearts of our workforce. We sit up for offering him with the affection, care, and non violent retirement he so merits.”
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