‘The most effective boy’: 18.2hh police horse who stole hearts in TV interview arrives at his eternally dwelling

An 18.2hh police horse who loves bananas and chin scratches – and is “the most effective boy” – has arrived at his final dwelling to get pleasure from a well-earned retirement.

H&H reported in June that Thames Valley Police (TVP) stalwart Atlas, who led The late Queen’s funeral procession, was to be on patrol on the closing Royal Ascot of his seven-year profession.

The 14-year-old is bowing out owing to arthritis and soundness points, to benefit from the “love, care, and leisure that he deserves”, a Horse Belief spokesperson mentioned, including: “It was an emotional day as his colleagues from TVP mentioned their heartfelt goodbyes, whereas Atlas met his new companions at our Dwelling of Relaxation for Horses.”

The spokesperson mentioned Atlas had been a “towering and reassuring presence” at TVP since his arrival in 2017. He was on responsibility 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 matches, protests and on joint operations”.

“The bond between Atlas and his former crew is second to none,” the charity spokesperson mentioned. “Atlas was cared for by his former rider, Chris, whereas awaiting an area at The Horse Belief. Chris, with 5 fellow officers who had shared the honour of using Atlas over time, accompanied him to his new dwelling in Buckinghamshire, every reflecting on the particular moments they shared with him.”

Chris mentioned Atlas was a “true light big”.

“He’s finest pals with fellow TVP horse Odin,” he mentioned. “He’s bought a love for bananas, chin scratches, and his therapeutic massage pad—he’s the most effective boy.”

Atlas received hearts this yr when he featured in what ought to have been a “severe interview” with one of many mounted part’s officers – however stole the present, attempting to eat the microphone and asking for consideration from the officer.

“Recognized for his playful and curious nature, Atlas at all times succeeded in maintaining his colleagues entertained, particularly PC Metcalf, with whom he shared a heartwarming interview forward of Ascot,” the spokesperson mentioned. “The bloopers generated quite a lot of engagement from his supporters, as Atlas took a eager curiosity within the microphone! Regardless of his dimension, Atlas’s labrador-like affection endeared him to everybody he met, each on and off responsibility.”

Atlas will reside with former TVP colleagues together with Trojan, and Rubin and Samson, whom he knew throughout his profession.

“We’re honoured to welcome this exceptional horse into our care,” mentioned Horse Belief CEO Jeanette Allen. “Atlas has touched the lives of so many by his devoted service, and he has already captured the hearts of our crew. We look ahead to offering him with the love, care, and peaceable retirement he so deserves.”

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H&H information editor

Eleanor is an skilled journalist who spent over eight years working for native and nationwide newspapers earlier than becoming a member of H&H as information editor in March 2016. Obsessed with equine welfare and exposing the reality, Eleanor has reported on all facets of the business, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage guidelines to mules. Her sport of selection is showjumping, during which she competes her personal horses, and he or she additionally enjoys reporting at native leaping exhibits by to worldwide championships.