‘The horse’s mouth’ blog: how Remembrance Sundays led to a British Legion service award

By Trigger

Natalie once said that you should walk 1,000 miles with your horse to get to know them and I think we’ve done that together over the years.

I’m pretty proud to be known as the dependable one, a safe set of hooves in any situation (what some people refer to as ‘bomb-proof’). Whenever I’m in a new situation I make sure I live up to my reputation even if my private self wants to spook. I have to remember that those 1,000 miles we’ve come together safely can be trusted.

My proudest moment was being awarded a service award by the Royal British Legion in Teddington, in recognition of ‘Service not self’ in the community, which I think is pretty special. I’ve been representing Park Lane Stables at the annual Remembrance Sunday services since 2009, that’s 16 years! Each year a member of the team is chosen to ride with me in the parade, and at the memorial they lay a wreath in memory of all the animals who lost their lives to wars.

I have to admit that I do adore being the centre of attention, it makes me feel 18 hands tall. My service award was presented by the leader of our local British Legion in full military dress. How many horses can say that? And my commemorative shield is pretty special. If you visit the Stables, do ask to see it – and me!

Trigger will once again be representing Park Lane Stables at the Remembrance Sunday service in Teddington on 9 November.

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