Veteran police horse crowned “Horse of the Year”

A police horse has won the outstanding equine annual achievement award from the Veteran Horse Society (VHS).

Ypres, a 16hh black, 16-year-old gelding has served with the Metropolitan Police for more than 12 years. His usual work involves acting as the mounted division’s mentor, and he was recognised for his continuing hard work and range of challenges undertaken.

This year he jumped through a flaming hoop as a member of the Police Activity Ride at the Horse of the Year Show, and has participated in state funerals.

VHS asked the Metropolitan Police to nominate a horse.

Julianne Aston, VHS founder, explained: “This year we thought it would be great for an unsung star to win, and police horses don’t get enough recognition for their hard work. Ypres is a horse in a million.”

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