Ex-forces chief Lord Guthrie in hospital after horse accident

A former head of the armed forces is in hospital after falling from his horse following the Trooping the Colour ceremony.

Field Marshal Lord Guthrie of Craigiebank, Dundee, received “prompt” medical attention and is now being looked after in hospital, an army spokesman said.

The 79-year-old could be seen lying on the ground and surrounded by police officers after the fall, which took place near the Victoria Memorial in front of Buckingham Palace on Saturday.

Pictures showed Lord Guthrie on the ground as officers rushed to his aid while another officer led his horse away.

Details about his condition have not been released.

An army spokesman said: “Field Marshal The Lord Guthrie, Colonel The Life Guards, fell from his horse during the parade.

“He received prompt medical attention and is now being cared for in hospital. We wish him a speedy recovery.”

Former SAS commander Lord Guthrie was head of the British Army until 1997 and then chief of the defence staff until 2001.

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson tweeted: “Everyone at the Ministry of Defence @DefenceHQ also sends their best wishes to Field Marshal Lord Guthrie on a speedy recovery.”

RAF veteran John Nichol tweeted: “Hearing Field Marshal Lord Guthrie was thrown from his horse earlier. Really hope all is OK.”

Picture: PA. Officers attend to the 79-year-old after the fall.

Picture: PA. Lord Guthrie.