HORSE riders and owners gathered in their best dress to ride out and pay their respects to Queen Elizabeth II on the day of her funeral.
A large group assembled at Wickham Community Centre at 9.45am and made their way to The Square where they held a minute’s silence in tribute before parading around the village centre.
Crowds had gathered and lined the streets to see the spectacle – after the motion took off on Facebook.
Ness Taylor, who organised the event, said a simple idea she posted on to a residents’ Facebook group had such an overwhelming response that she felt compelled to hold the event in memory of the Queen and to celebrate the Queen’s love of horses.
Ness, from Wickham, said: “I am a bit emotional. It is lovely to see so many people here. It was an off the cuff moment, people responded but no one wanted to plan it so I thought I would do it. I posted on to the Wickham Facebook page and on my own and so many people messaged saying they would like to be here. I am overwhelmed by everyone's efforts.”
Lauren Moore, from Knowle, was there with her daughter Chloe Lawrence, 10 who was riding Ebony. Lauren said: “It is amazing. I can’t believe how many people have turned up in support.”
Jessica Seeley, 33, from Shedfield, was there with her whole family – husband Mark, son Oliver, one, dog Barney and her two ponies Barney and Princess Catherine.
She said: “I went to London yesterday to lay some flowers which was nice, but this is lovely to see happening locally. I am a big fan of the Royal family, and this celebrates the Queen’s life and her love of horses.”
Kevin Hall, from Soberton, was with his son Billy, and horse Fella, riding his trap.
He said: “I wanted to come and show some respect. Fella has been up to Buckingham Palace lots of times. It is a fantastic turn out today.”
Riding schools from across the area also joined in.
Liddy Schofield, 12, was riding Molly. Liddy is the granddaughter of Angela Schofield who ran a riding school at Wickham Stables for more than 60 years. Mrs Schofield, who is now 86, was watching the funeral from home.
Ellie Herrick, who was riding Corelli and accompanying Liddy, said: “We are so proud to be here. Mrs Schofield would be proud to see us too.”
Families lined the pavements in Wickham to see the parade.
Katie Mattingly, from Wickham, was with her husband Chris and their six-month-old daughter Callie.
She said: “It is a nice event for the village. Today is a momentous occasion. Everybody has made such an effort.”
To see more photos from the event, click here.
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