SAMSON

This towering grey gelding arrived with us in January 2017 and stands at a rather large 18.2hh hands!

Samson’s working career started with a falconry centre based in Hampshire where he took part in the displays with many birds of prey. After his initial trial period at Thames Valley, Samson passed his police training with flying colours and faithfully served the Mounted Branch for 5 years.

Being a brave, honest and hardworking horse, Samson became an integral part of the team very quickly and within six months he was policing busy footballs matches and carrying out high profile public reassurance patrols. Before he started his day, Samson had a daily appointment with the hose! The Officers had to spend hours cleaning him before patrol.

Samson’s working years were colourful; he took part in search patrols for missing persons, school visits & ceremonial parades. The annual highlight of his career was escorting Queen Elizabeth II along the course at Royal Ascot. He also worked during a very violent demonstration in Brighton in which the Officers and their horses received a Commendation from the Chief Constable of Sussex Police for their bravery.

Samson is our ‘big friendly giant’ and hugely popular with visitors. If you follow us on Facebook you’ll also be aware that Samson has one of the longest tongues in the herd and frequently features in our ‘Tongue Out Tuesday’ posts which amuses staff and supporters alike!