A
sad little ceremony, dampened by the pouring rain, was held recently
to honour the memory of ILPH Alexander, a long serving police horse,
faithful companion and friend.
Trevor
and Noreen Bassendale of Belton, near Doncaster were at ILPH (International
League for the Protection of Horses) Hall Farm in Norfolk, to plant
a sweet chestnut tree in honour of the much loved ex-police horse
that they had on loan from the ILPH for over 10 years, who died
at the end of last year.
Comments
Trevor, "After 12 years serving with the West Yorkshire Mounted
Police Force he was retired to the ILPH and came out on loan to
us. He was a wonderful horse, a great character and much loved by
children. We miss him dreadfully, and without him our life won't
be quite the same again."
After
Trevor had planted the tree in memory of Alexander, the small group
gathered around the sapling listened quietly while Bev Spiby, ILPH
Trees in Tribute Officer, read "A policeman's Lot - Alexander",
a poem written by Trevor in dedication to the couple's lost friend.
For
information on the ILPH Trees in Tribute Scheme please contact Bev
Spiby on 0870 366 6913.
_________________________________
A
Policeman's Lot
"ILPH
Alexander"
You served with dignity
You served with pride
A proud Police horse in every stride
Long winter days, you worked your patrol
On those hard city streets, that took their toll.
Soon
the time came for your well-earned rest,
You came home to us and we gave you our best
Gentle hacks down long bridleways,
Grazing the meadow, what glorious days,
With your best friend 'Pops' close at hand,
Your happy life was regal and grand.
We
loved you with all of our heart
But sadly, the day came when we had to part
You gently lay down and closed your eyes,
Thank God we had said our final goodbyes.
Our gentle giant had gone to sleep
Despite our love, you weren't ours to keep.
Sometime
in heaven we will once again meet
To make our family once more complete,
Since you left us, we have so sad,
After all, we were, your Mum and Dad.
www.ilph.org
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