The King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery’s Musical Drive is set to return to The London International Horse Show, 15 years after it was last performed at the event.
The display demonstrates the skill of the soldiers, who control teams of six horses pulling wheeled guns at high speed. Comprising four guns, 26 horses, 14 mounted and 16 dismounted soldiers, the Musical Drive demonstrates the manoeuvres used in the First World War to drive guns around the battlefield.
“We are hugely pleased to be taking part in the London International Horse Show this year,” said Captain Amy Cooper of The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery. “The show is a fantastic end to what has been a historic year for us, and we are so looking forward to performing the Musical Drive in front of the show’s crowds.”
The King’s Troop, formed in 1946 by King George VI, are a core part of state occasions and are responsible for firing the saluting guns. In addition to these duties, the 170 personnel and 120 military working horses making up the regiment take charge of the King’s Life Guard at Horse Guards in London each summer, while the Household Cavalry take their summer recess.
The Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery on parade for Trooping the Colour for The King’s Birthday Parade
The presence of the King’s Troop will round off a remarkable year for His Majesty The King’s Mounted Ceremonial Battery, during which the regiment has formed a key part of the Coronation celebrations. London International Director, Simon Brooks-Ward, expressed his pleasure at their return to the event.
“After a such a fantastic year of fulfilling their commitments on the world stage, it’s a privilege to be able to bring such an exciting display up close in front of our audience,” he added.
This year, The London International Horse Show will also feature a new arena, and performances from equestrian stars like Ben Atkinson, with further announcements of attractions and performances to be announced in coming weeks.
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