Household Cavalry prepare for pageant

One hundred horses took part in the Major General’s Inspection of the Household Cavalry Regiment in Hyde Park recently, and recreated a movement unseen on parade for decades.

“This is an annual inspection to ensure we’re up to speed for our forthcoming ceremonial season,” said Household Cavalry Riding Master Major Richard Waygood.

The parade this year ran a slightly different format, as the members of the cavalry practised movements they plan to use for the Household Cavalry Pageant on 12 June at Horse Guards Parade. The pageant, brainchild of Capt Christopher Joll, marks the opening of the new Household Cavalry Museum.

“One of the special movements carried out on Thursday was ‘regiment inline’ which involves the whole regiment — 100 horses — crossing the parade ground in line,” said Capt Waygood. “It hadn’t been seen on parade in anyone’s living memory, and is a truly spectacular sight.”

View our gallery of images recording this unique occasion >>

For details on the pageant, which will raise money for the museum, and to book tickets (tel: 0870 534 4444).

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