Working horses given free rein to take starring role in commemorative stamps

Lance Bombadier Emma Playford, Gunner Calum Pearson and Gunner Joshua Ratcliffe of The King's Troop Horse Artillery in Woolwich as they launch a new set of stamps entitled 'Working Horses'.

The six stamps include images of horses from the Riding for the Disabled Association, dray and police horses, and the King’s Troop ceremonial horses.

Officials at the Royal Mail say the set has been compiled to celebrate the bond between horses and humans which has flourished over the course of British history.

Mankind’s relationship with the horse dates back at least 6,000 years, with the animal making a significant contribution in agriculture and industry over the centuries. There are now just under a million horses in the UK and 1.6 million people ride at least once a month.

The Riding for the Disabled Association organises horse events including riding and carriage driving so that 30,000 people with disabilities can enjoy the activities each year.

The director of stamps and collectibles at Royal Mail Stamps, Andrew Hammond, said: “Throughout human history, the horse has often been at the centre of events.

“Today the horse still contributes greatly to society, from practical and recreational uses to the leading ceremonies of state.

“Royal Mail is delighted to mark the contribution working horses make to British life.”

The stamps are available from today online at www.royalmail.com/workinghorses, by telephoning 08457 641 641 or by visiting any of the 10,000 Post Office branches throughout the UK.

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