It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of one of our cherished residents, former Police Scotland horse Orcadia, at the age of 27. He lived a full and remarkable life.

Fondly known as Jester or “Mr Brown” to schoolchildren, Orcadia joined us in September 2019 after an impressive 14 years of service with Strathclyde Police, later continuing his duties with Police Scotland following the merger.

Throughout his distinguished career in the north of the United Kingdom, Orcadia took part in a wide range of police duties, excelling particularly in football crowd control and public order operations his courage, composure and professionalism earning him great respect among his handlers. He proudly represented the force at high-profile events including the G8 Summit in 2005 and the Lord Mayor’s Show in London as part of the UK Mounted Police contingent. Always the consummate gentleman, he often mentored younger horses, guiding them with quiet confidence and calm.

In retirement, Orcadia settled into life here in the Chilterns with the same presence and poise that defined his working years. He remained closely bonded with his former colleague and dear friend Kilsyth, and shared a special connection with the late, great, Caesar. His dignified, sometimes demanding nature was matched only by his charm particularly when requesting his favourite belly scratches from the grooms, a ritual he never tired of.

Sadly, Orcadia had been battling a long-term lameness issue, which, despite dedicated monitoring and expert care from our veterinary team, gradually worsened. When it became clear that he was no longer responding to treatment and his discomfort could no longer be managed, the kindest and most compassionate decision was made to let him go with peace and dignity.

Orcadia was a horse of great strength, character, and heart. We are honoured to have provided him with the peaceful retirement he so richly earned, and we will always treasure the memories of his time with us. He leaves behind hoofprints on the hearts of everyone who knew him.

Rest easy, Orcadia. May you now gallop free, with old friends. HTx