Riders and horses from the King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery were injured during exercise earlier this month (11 January).
The MET Police and London Air Ambulance attended the scene, treating the riders and securing the horses.
“We can confirm a number of military personnel and horses were injured,” said an Army spokesman.
“The injured personnel received medical treatment and the horses were assessed and are recovering.”
The spokesman explained that the King’s Troop must continue their work during the pandemic.
“Ceremonial duties are a military task and all horses must be exercised,” she said. “The current level of training has been reduced to an absolute minimum.”
King’s Troop and Covid 19
The military horses still require daily exercise, despite ceremonial gunfire being suspended due to national restrictions.
It is important for the welfare of the horses, the Army spokesman explained, and provides military personnel an opportunity to develop equine specific skills to help them in their daily routines.
“This has, since March last year, been undertaken effectively whilst always in accordance with government guidance,” she added.
“Many of our horses have spent time away from London enjoying the fresh fields of Leicestershire but they also need suitable time to get used to the busy roads in the capital, so this is not a shock to them when taking part in state ceremonial and public duties activities.
“The requirement to meet the nation’s needs continues, including the need for the Army to remain trained and ready to deploy at any time.
“Soldiers and officers of every rank are required to understand and strictly adhere to the guidance for the health protection of personnel in their area, as given by the Army’s Senior Health Advisor.
“Those who experience symptoms isolate and are tested in accordance with government guidelines.”
