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Military Horse Vida Returns Home After London Stampede

Two horses on the loose bolt through the streets of London near Aldwych, on Wednesday April 24, 2024. (Jordan Pettitt/PA via AP)

A white military horse named Vida, who made headlines earlier this year for bolting through central London drenched in blood, has finally returned home after more than six months of recovery. The incident occurred on April 24 when Vida and four other horses became spooked by noise from a nearby construction site near Buckingham Palace during routine exercises. The horses ran for several miles through the city during morning rush hour, causing chaos.

Three of the soldiers who were thrown from their horses were hospitalized but were expected to return to duty. While three of the horses quickly returned to service, Vida and another horse required operations after colliding with vehicles during the stampede. The other horse, named Quaker, has yet to return to the regiment.

The three remaining horses, Tennyson, Trojan, and Vanquish, were able to return to service in time for the birthday celebration of King Charles III in June. Vida, however, needed more time to recover physically and emotionally.

Three soldiers were hospitalized but expected to return to duty.
Vida bolted through London after being spooked near Buckingham Palace.
Vida and another horse required operations after colliding with vehicles.

The Horse Trust, an equine charity that provided care for Vida, announced his return to the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, which serves as the ceremonial guard of the monarch and participates in state functions in London. The charity mentioned that Vida had recovered well during his time in the countryside, both physically and emotionally.

Despite the challenges faced during Vida's recovery, the staff at The Horse Trust expressed bittersweet feelings about his departure. Vida, known for enjoying rolling in the mud and the attention he received from the staff, had become a beloved figure at the charity.

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