Welcome Home, Inverness

We are delighted to welcome Inverness, a much-loved 20-year-old Clydesdale from Police Scotland’s Mounted Unit, into retirement at The Horse Trust. Standing at an impressive 17hh, Inverness is one of the most iconic figures in mounted policing from the last decade – renowned for his size, strength, and gentle nature.

Over his remarkable 12-year career, Inverness supported Police Scotland at some of the highest-profile events in the country. From the 2014 Commonwealth Games, COP26 in Glasgow, and The Open Golf Championship, to countless Old Firm and Edinburgh derby matches, he remained a calm and commanding presence in the crowd. He also played a vital role in maintaining public order during historic moments, such as the 2016 Scottish Cup Final at Hampden Park and the 2021 title celebrations in George Square following Rangers’ Premiership victory.

Constable Claire Knowles, Instructor and Assessor with Police Scotland’s Mounted Unit, reflected on his service:

As well as his front-line duties, Inverness helped train new officers through Standard Equitation Courses – recruits remember how he helped tone their core muscles! He’s affectionate and quirky – he’ll be sorely missed, and we wish him the very best in retirement.

Now enjoying a slower pace of life in the Chiltern Hills, Inverness has settled in wonderfully. In a comical twist for a horse known to dislike the rain, he’s already taking full advantage of the warmer southern weather. He recently had a fresh clip to help him adjust to the unseasonably warm spring, standing patiently and clearly enjoying the extra attention from our team.

Watch the welcome video

He now shares a home in Buckinghamshire with some familiar faces, including fellow Police Scotland retirees Kilsyth and Edinburgh, and is quickly becoming part of his new herd; which includes many Lancashire Police horses, as well as City of London Police horse Scooby and retired English Heritage historical reenactment cob, Bob, who Inverness has grown particularly fond of. At 17hh, he’s certainly the tallest member of the group, and the others are still getting used to his towering presence! Sociable and curious, Inverness often strolls over during field checks and has even been spotted lending a hoof to Groom Ed as he cleaned out the water trough.

Welcome Home

We’re absolutely delighted to welcome you into our herd and truly honoured to offer you the restful, well-earned retirement you deserve here in Buckinghamshire.

Head to Inverness’s full profile here.

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