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Finsbury, a Thoroughbred x draught who served in the mounted police, has been crowned Petplan Hero Pet of the Year.
The gentle giant was deployed for a range of engagements, including policing football matches, state visits, Trooping the Colour, the London Olympics and the 2011 riots.
“His service was exemplary, and his bravery shown during his years working for us deserves this accolade,” said PC Elizabeth Keyte, who nominated Fin.
Fin entered situations that often involved violent disorder on a huge scale. When mounted officers were requested to clear an area of rival gangs fighting and attacking police at the 2017 Lambeth Country Show, Fin led the way and was hit by a large bottle. Unlike many horses, he bravely continued forward and held steady.
He could also be relied on to support trainee horses, novice riders and was a pro at navigating London’s busy roads.
“Fin is a true hero,” added Elizabeth. “He asks for nothing but rest now in his field with his retirement friends, Falstaff and Alderman, plus the farmer’s orphaned calf and the chickens.”
Monster was a finalist for the Petplan Survivor Pet of the Year award.
The former dressage mount — he competed up to advanced medium level — survived a freak accident in his field when he got a back leg caught between two trees and fell over. Thrashing resulted in a fractured skull and a leg injury so severe you could see the bone.
“It has taken three years for him to heal fully, but he’s over it now — with a big scar on his head and leg,” said Cecilia Dean, who has owned 19-year-old Monster for nine years. “I took him for a hack recently and he loved it. Considering we all thought he wouldn’t survive, it’s the best gift.”
The other equine finalists were Susan Stewardson’s Buster (Petplan Companion Pet of the Year) and Laura Brown’s Yolo
(Petplan Rescue Pet of the Year).