FRANKIE

Highnam, affectionately known as Frankie, is a stunning black Irish Sports Horse who was named after the idyllic Highnam Court in Gloucester. He retired to us in July 2024 after a short yet distinguished four-year career with the Gloucester Mounted Police.

Standing tall at 17.2hh, Frankie’s commanding presence made him an effective and striking police horse. Now enjoying retirement at our Home of Rest for Horses, he remains a formidable presence among our other Military and Police retirees, yet he’s a big softie at heart, providing our grooms with plenty of sloppy, grass-flavoured kisses!

During his remarkable career, Frankie accomplished a lot! He was posted to COP26 in Glasgow for public order patrols, assisted at high-profile events such as Manchester City vs. Manchester United, Leicester City, and Cardiff vs. Leeds football matches. He was a familiar sight at Gloucester rugby fixtures and Cheltenham Town Football Club, and he participated in ceremonial events, including parade escorts, funerals, and “night-time economy” patrols. Frankie also embraced the calmer side of policing, engaging in community visits, reassurance patrols, and training new horses and officers.

Most notably, Frankie made history as the first horse for Gloucestershire Constabulary to lead the Cheltenham Gold Cup winner during his first year of duty, a testament to the trust the entire team had in his kind, calm, and gentle personality.

Unfortunately, kissing spine and arthritis meant that Frankie could no longer be ridden, leading to the decision to grant him an early retirement in the serene Chiltern Hills of Buckinghamshire. Here, he can enjoy the rest and relaxation he so richly deserves.