1 – Annie

We have been inspired by the stories you have told us about wonderful horses, mules and donkeys who, either through war or in peacetime, have made an outstanding contribution to the lives of we humans through dedication, gentleness, strength and loyalty. Acclaimed sculptor Susan Leyland forged our own Poppy the War Horse after studying the anatomy of many different types of equines, and Poppy we believe stands as a fitting tribute, a horse to symbolise all the horses that have given service and sacrifice in war.

It might be surprising then that the first horse chosen to go into this hall of fame is not a military steed but Annie, a gentle and loving mare from Cockington Village, near Torquay in Devon. Annie has been nominated by Kirk and Hannah Petrakis who are our first husband and wife volunteer Ambassadors. They run K&H Carriages, in Cockington and its Annie’s job to take holidaymakers and sightseers round the historic thatched village in a splendid open topped carriage.

Kirk explains: “I say to folks at Cockington she a voice for all the horses, mules and donkeys that lost their lives in war and she seems to have a spring in her step when we take people round the village and talk about purple poppies and the ways they can help military and equine charities by supporting the Appeal. No one can refuse to buy a badge when Annie gives them one of her looks.”

So Annie becomes our first Hero Horse – and also our first honorary Equine Ambassador. Please email us details of the horse, mule or donkey you would like to nominate and why. Include a photo and send to susan@thewarhorsememorial.org