Goodnight, Viscount

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we inform you of the passing of our beloved Viscount, formerly of The Household Cavalry, at the grand age of 30.

Viscount, fondly known as ‘Biscuit’, served his country for an incredible 21 years and 11 months, becoming at that time the longest serving military horse in history. Throughout his long and successful career, Viscount took part in a wide array of duties, from carrying senior officers as an Officer’s Charger in major State Parades to escorting royalty on Ceremonial Parades. Viscount also played an integral role in training new recruits. Our black beauty was said to have had the calmest of demeanours whilst at work and served ‘with distinction in all aspects of service.’

Viscount’s last four ceremonial seasons saw him carrying the musicians from The Band of The Household Cavalry; an honour only the steadiest and most consistent horses would be trusted with. These horses must be ridden with limited instruction as the musicians predominately give direction using their legs whilst carrying their instruments. Viscount mastered this magnificently, as was expected from such a hardworking and composed horse.

We were honoured to welcome Viscount through our stable doors in June 2017 where he went on to enjoy five incredibly well-deserved years of retirement. Viscount was a joy to look after and could often be found in his field with fellow military friends, Auriol and Aquaba.

We were devastated when recently, Viscount developed sudden neurological signs. This was a complication of his Cushing’s disease, a chronic, progressive condition of the pituitary gland. Our team had been carefully managing Viscount’s condition until that point with medication but sadly it reached a stage where it was no longer treatable and the kindest thing for us to do for our hero horse was to say goodnight to him one last time.

The whole team was incredibly sad to say goodbye to Viscount; however, we knew that sadly it was his time and that the greatest service we could give him in return for all his years of service to our country was to let him pass away peacefully. Goodnight Viscount, we miss you ever so much but we are so grateful to have known and cared for you throughout your twilight years. Sleep tight now Biscuit, you were a true hero and you’ve more than earned your rest. We will never ever forget you.

Click here to see more photos of Viscount on our Facebook page.