Brave police horse dies from colic: ‘he was a firm favourite’
One of the “most trusted mounts” in the Metropolitan Police has died aged 19 following a bout of colic.
Police horse Keston was bought by the force as a seven-year-old and started his career at the mounted training base in Esher in 2007.
From there, he was issued to PC Dunan Jones and posted to Hammersmith stables.
“His journey however was not an easy one,” a police spokesman told H&H.
“As a young remount, he tested even Duncan’s cool and calm persona.”
After much patience, “eventually the penny dropped”, and Keston started his operational duties.
“Over the last four years, he was based at Great Scotland Yard where he was a firm favourite with all the officers due to his mischievous character,” said the spokesman.
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“He loved a cuddle and fuss but equally when your back was turned he could untie himself in seconds.
“He would then find a vacant stable and help himself to another horse’s hay.”
It's with the greatest of sadness to announce that PH Keston has passed away. PH Keston regularly escorted HM The Queen on various state events and other high profile occasions. He was a real crowed pleaser with people around London. Thank you for your service Keston. Rip. pic.twitter.com/sN1MuLBqZvIt's with the greatest of sadness to announce that PH Keston has passed away. PH Keston regularly escorted HM The Queen on various state events and other high profile occasions. He was a real crowed pleaser with people around London. Thank you for your service Keston. Rip. pic.twitter.com/sN1MuLBqZv— MetTaskforce (@MetTaskforce) January 2, 2019— MetTaskforce (@MetTaskforce) January 2, 2019
During his time with the force, he frequently escorted The Queen on state occasions and high-profile events.
He also took part in policing the 2012 London Olympics, the Notting Hill carnival, football matches, demonstrations, community events, school visits and New Year’s Eve celebrations.
“In his last years, Keston went from strength to strength and was normally the mount of choice for new mounted branch officers and senior officers,” added the spokesman.
“On the streets, he was one of the most trusted mounts but if anyone would dare to take him in the school, they would normally be eating sand as he had perfected his buck.”
Keston’s most recent officer, Phil Butler, remembers the horse’s bravery.
“I remember riding Keston at a football match where officers were being heavily attacked,” he said.
“We were sent into the disorder to protect colleagues and Keston was superb.
“I received a commendation for this, but all Keston wanted was an apple.”
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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.