The War Horse Memorial

The Lord Mayor of Cardiff, Councillor Bob Derbyshire has accepted a bronze horseshoe on behalf of the people of Wales to signify the service and sacrifice made by thousands of Welsh horses in the First World War.

This symbolic gesture forms part of The War Horse Memorial, the first national monument dedicated exclusively to the millions of UK, Allied and Commonwealth horses, mules and donkeys lost during The Great War. It pays tribute to the nobility, courage, unyielding loyalty and immeasurable contribution these animals played in giving us the freedom of democracy we all enjoy today.

Alan Carr MBE, Director of the Memorial says that although the monument will be erected in Ascot, in Berkshire, the link with the four countries of the UK is extremely important to the success of the project. He explains: "We are keen to acknowledge the huge contribution made particularly by the Welsh Horse Yeomanry. Records show that both men and horses served with distinction throughout the four-year long campaign.

"Our giant bronze horse has purposely been sculptured without her horseshoes, and we are delighted that Councillor Derbyshire has agreed to accept one of them on behalf of the people of Wales. The other three horse shoes will be presented to Edinburgh, Belfast and London over the coming weeks."

The Rt. Hon. The Lord Mayor of Cardiff, Cllr Bob Derbyshire says: "I am honoured to accept the War Horse bronze horseshoe on behalf of the people of Wales. The commemorative horseshoe will be a fitting tribute to the Welsh horses that served in the Great War and will act as a lasting reminder to the people of Wales how equine service and sacrifice secured our freedom."