Farewell Ganemedes

Our gorgeous Ganemedes, the 15.3hh little chap of the Met Police, has said his final farewell. This 16 year old little dynamo had served as a police horse in the capital for 11 years and was honoured with a royal retirement to us by our Patron HRH The Princess Royal two years ago after suffering intermittent lameness.

When in service, Ganny took part in all manner of police work, including general policing of the streets of London, major football grounds in London, demonstrations and the student riots. Affectionately known as Gangles, his rider Police Constable Samantha Riggs, described him as “Challenging” but that there is no other horse like him. Despite his small size, he was extremely brave and very fast, always “first in” on patrol or riots.

Since retiring, Ganemedes took on a new protective role as “Step Daddy” to many of the younger generation here at The Horse Trust. He was always in the middle of the youngsters, keeping them out of trouble and making sure they were safe. It was terribly sad when we realised that we could no longer keep him pain free and happy and that even though he was a youngster himself for us, it was his time to go. PC Riggs and other officers from the Met Mounted Section came to say their goodbyes which were wonderful for everyone however sad. This little firecracker has left an enormous hole here, Rocket Ron is doing his best trying to fill in for him on the nursery slopes but there’s no Step Daddy like Ganny. Please keep a watch over your little charges from up there Gangles, they miss you and so do we. Sleep tight and free from pain.