Goodbye, Duke

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of former Metropolitan Police Horse Duke, at the age of 25. Duke was an extraordinarily hard working and brave Irish Hunter horse who arrived to us in 2019 after previously serving with the City of London Epping Forest Services and the Metropolitan Police Mounted Branch.

Described as one of ‘the best of the Forest Patrol Horses’ he was incredibly intelligent, responsive and powerful. Duke patrolled Epping Forest with his rider Andrew, who he formed an incredibly special bond with during his years of service. He was a horse who truly loved his work and enjoyed the kindness he received from the community. After his retirement from patrol services, Duke was brought to Writtle College where he was used to teach numerous students how to ride and care for horses.

During his time at The Horse Trust, he became one of our much loved characters, thanks in part to his incredibly sweet nature, spirit and loving personality.  On visitor days at The Horse Trust, Duke could often be seen with his head over the stable door welcoming lots of attention from the public.

Sadly, he had been suffering with arthritis that grew progressively worse over time. Through the winter our Vet, Nicky, had to increase his pain medication and adjust his management in order to keep him comfortable and happy. Duke eventually reached a point where we were no longer able to give him a good quality of life and therefore were forced to make the heart wrenching decision to let him go.

We are truly heartbroken to say farewell to this loving horse who gave so much in his years of service and touched the hearts of so many.

Duke, you have been the most magnificent horse and it has truly been an honour to have you in our care over these past three years. We take comfort in the fact that you are now galloping free from pain, across the rainbow bridge. Rest in peace, dear friend, you will be forever in our thoughts.