‘Noble and polite’ police horse retires to quieter life in the country
A former police horse has swapped the busy streets of Newcastle for a retirement in the Chilterns.
Pilot, known as “Max”, served with Northumbria police for eight years before retiring to live at The Horse Trust’s base in Princes Risborough.
The 20-year-old Irish draught cross Clydesdale arrived at the charity on 2 November.
Originally from Seaton Sluice in Northumberland, Max grew too big and bold for his owner so he was sold to the police.
During his time with the force, he policed football matches, music events, Remembrance Day parades and mass demonstrations.
“He carried out his daily patrol duties with the ease and efficiency of the noble and polite gentleman he is,” said his long-term rider PC Tony Preece.
In his “civilian” life, Max enjoyed galloping along the open beaches on the Northumbrian coast, particularly Druridge Bay.
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“Although formally retired Max will still have a part time job,” said Jeanette Allen of The Horse Trust.
“He will be our school master, having a regular little plod around the village helping to teach our younger rescue horses — who are being prepared for rehoming — how to be brave.
“With his incredibly calm and brave nature he will do a wonderful job as our elder statesman.”
Max joins a host of other ex-police and military horses that have retired to live at the charity.
Among his new equine friends is Mr Screwemtight, known as “Falstaff” (pictured above, with Max), a former sections commander’s charger of The Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery.
Fifteen-year-old Falstaff, who has performed in the world-famous musical drive and served in countless parades, also joined the charity last month.
The 17.3hh horse suffers from osteoarthritis in his coffin joints and was retired as his workload became too much for his condition.
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Lucy is an experienced news journalist, reporter and presenter. Since joining the Horse & Hound team in 2015, Lucy has reported from major global sporting events including the Tokyo Paralympic Games and multiple European Championships, as well as Badminton, Burghley and London, to name a few. She has covered current affairs and sports news across the full spectrum of equestrian disciplines and racing, as well as human and equine welfare, industry news and court cases.