Queen Elizabeth’s favourite horse has died.


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Monarch – which led a team of eight horses which drew the queen’s carriage during the Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2002 – passed away in his sleep, aged 25.

The grey gelding pulled the royal mail coach between Buckingham Palace and Royal Mews during his long service to the monarchy.

Susan Lewis, spokesman for the Horse Trust, praised Monarch as a “perfect gentleman”.

She said: “Monarch was a very special horse and became a particular favourite with the queen because his character was so easy going. He really was a gorgeous horse.

“He was unique because he trained a lot of the other royal horses. He was a real pleasure to have with us. He was always the perfect gentleman.”

“He enjoyed a busy working life at Buckingham Palace and was a familiar sight at royal events. As such, he will be sadly missed.”

The faithful royal servant- who died at the trust’s stables in the Chilterns – was known as quite the lothario.

Head groom Charlotte Pardon added: “He had a bit of a penchant for the ladies but was afraid of his own shadow and terrified of the donkeys.”