The HAC Light Cavalry are the bodyguards for the Lady Mayoress, while I am solidly defended by the HAC Company of Pikemen & Musketeers. The HAC Light Cavalry was originally formed in 1861, then later absorbed into the Horse Artillery element of the Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) in 1891. Today the Light Cavalry operate as a non-profit organisation offering hacks and lessons on our forward going military parade horses.  You can join and support too, going riding with them or undertaking dismounted duties.

In 2021 I had the fortune of riding with the Light Cavalry round the City. But that was as Sheriff. Elisabeth has been inordinately kind to let me ride with her mounted defenders twice this year. Once with my Sheriff Bronek Masojada in May to raise money for charity, but also to inspect the unit today down at their Windsor HQ at Flemish Farm. Elisabeth and I attended the inspection in October 2021, but today I was inspecting on horseback. Small aside, Her Majesty had also done so on horseback two decades ago. And on a tearful note, perhaps my last opportunity to be astride my trusty steed, Leo.

For me it was hacking, but our City’s riding elite cut an enormously fine sight at the annual inspection. They are the only mounted unit in the world to conduct their inspection in full battle dress at a canter. True horsemen and soldiers. And excellent hosts as we dined afterwards in the marquis and swapped tales.

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