John Berry, a former member of Loxley Silver Band, has been accepted into the Blues & Royals of the Band of the Household Cavalry — the only mounted band in the Army.

The regiment has the Freedom of the City of London and the right to gallop in the Royal Parks with swords (or cornets) drawn!

Trooping the Colour

Last weekend John took part in the Trooping of the Colour as well as the Major General's Parade, which takes place outside Buckingham Palace, and is now looking forward to the forthcoming Queen's Birthday Parade on 11th June in addition to the regular ceremonial work and a trip to the Edinburgh Tattoo.

It was pretty tough on the riding course. I've gone from being an absolute novice to accomplished mounted dutyman in 16 weeks — but I'm enjoying it nowJohn Berry

Accomplished

He told 4BR: "It was pretty tough on the riding course. I've gone from being an absolute novice to accomplished mounted dutyman in 16 weeks — but I'm enjoying it now."