A police horse who was punched by an enraged Newcastle United fan at a Tyne-Wear football derby has earned himself a promotion to teach younger horses with the Metropolitan Police at their Cobham training base.
Fifteen-year-old Bud, pictured, was struck by Barry Rogerson following Newcastle’s 3-0 defeat to Sunderland at St James’ Park in April 2013 as almost 100 Geordie fans were embroiled in clashes with police after the game.
Rogerson, 47, who was videoed assaulting the police mount while wearing a scarf over his face, was sentenced to a year in jail after pleading guilty to violent disorder at Newcastle Crown Court.
Bud was not harmed in the attack, but he was showered with gifts and messages of support from concerned members of the public at his stables at the force’s mounted section at West Yorkshire Police.
Bud will now take the stand to train younger horses at Imber Court in Molesey despite coming towards the end of his working life.
His many years of experience, including eight years with the team at West Yorkshire, have helped to land his new role.
Also leaving the section is Louis who, after spending 16 years with the team, is retiring to Huddersfield.
Sergeant Jayne West said: “We will be sad to see Bud and Louis leave Carr Gate.
"As with all our horses, they are all treasured by the officers and staff who work with and look after them.
“They have both been fantastic to work with, and have experienced so many different circumstances.”
Got a story? Call the newsdesk on 020 8722 6313 or email rachel.dickerson@london.newsquest.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here