Posted: 16th November 2017 | Back to news feed
With just under a month to go until Olympia, the London International Horse Show, the event’s official charity, Hannah’s Willberry Wonder Pony, sent their two favourite live mascots, miniature ponies Doris and Teddy, to London for the first time ever to help the Mounted Branch of Metropolitan Police (MPS) on patrol.
Stepping onto the Mall, one of London’s most iconic locations, Teddy and Doris lined up with Police horses 10 times their height, Merlin and Quixote, who will be taking part at Olympia as part of the MPS Police Activity Ride. Despite the noticeable size difference, the tiny Shetlands just about kept up as the steady Police horses took them under their wing as they walked side-by-side towards Buckingham Palace.
Instagram sensation Teddy the Shetland’s owner, Alice Goring, also the charity Scientific Advisor, spoke of the occasion “This is the first time Teddy and Doris have been to central London, so it is great they could familiarise themselves before Olympia Horse Show starts in December. Doris was Hannah's own Shetland and meant the world to her. I am not sure they are quite ready to join the Police Force yet, they only have little legs, so it would take them a long time to get around all the streets of London! But we are so grateful to Inspector Simon Rooke for letting them be part of his incredible team for a morning and helping to raise awareness for Hannah’s legacy.”
Inspector Simon Rooke commented, “We were really pleased to welcome Doris and Teddy to the team this morning. They might not be the usual type of horse we have on patrol, but they certainly added something different! The Metropolitan Police Activity Ride are extremely proud to be performing in front of the wonderful crowds at Olympia this year. The show gives us an opportunity to demonstrate the extraordinary bravery of our horses and the unique bond of trust they have with our officers. The horses that will be performing at Olympia, including Merlin and Quixote, are all operational and patrol the streets of London daily.”
THE MOUNTED BRANCH OF THE METROPOLITAN POLICE AT OLYMPIA
The Mounted Branch of the Metropolitan Police will be appearing at Olympia with their breath-taking Activity Ride, a phenomenal demonstration of skill and bravery as they negotiate hazards, portraying complete trust between horse and Officer. The historic act demonstrates the day-to-day training routine ahead of patrolling the busy streets of London, carrying on a proud tradition of service and duty which began in 1873, when horses were hired from a local livery stable for use in emergencies.
HANNAH’S WILLBERRY WONDER PONY
Founded by the late Hannah Francis, a successful young event rider, when diagnosed with a rare bone cancer, the charity aims to support vital research into osteosarcoma, together with granting Willberry’s Wishes to seriously ill people with the aim of enriching their lives through equestrian experiences. Hannah was so touched by the generosity of many in the equestrian world who allowed her to do likewise and was determined to be able to do the same for others.
For more information on Olympia, The London International Horse Show, and how to purchase tickets visit www.olympiahorseshow.com.
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