The royal family has given a touching update on the Queen’s pony Emma following the monarch’s death last month.
Queen Elizabeth was known for her lifelong love of horses and passion for riding, sparked by the gift of a Shetland pony named Peggy by her grandfather King George V. For the last fifteen years of her life she was accompanied by Emma, whom she regularly rode around the grounds of Windsor Castle.
When Her Majesty died on September 8 aged 96, many royal fans voiced concern over what would happen to her beloved animals, including Emma and her corgis. As viewers around the world watched the Queen’s funeral procession unfold, many were reduced to tears when Emma made an appearance.
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The Fell pony was brought outside to see her owner return home to Windsor, with a headscarf belonging to the late monarch placed over her saddle in a loving tribute. Some viewers even pointed out that Emma appeared to “curtsey”, stamping her hoof as the Queen’s hearse drove past.
Now the royal family have reassured the public that Emma is in the best hands, releasing a beautiful new image of the black pony as they gave an update on her care. The official royal family Twitter account posted the image as they wrote: “For the past fifteen years, Queen Elizabeth regularly rode Emma for light exercise in the grounds around Windsor Castle.
“Emma paid tribute to Her Majesty during the Ceremonial Procession in Windsor on Monday 19th September,” the post went on. The family then gave a heartwarming update on how well the pony is being looked after following the Queen’s passing.
“She will continue to be much-loved and cared for at the Royal Mews, Windsor, and regularly exercised by its small, dedicated team,” they wrote. Many were moved by the sweet message, with several fans admitting that it had them tearing up anew.
“I saw that and it brought tears because we all know how much the Queen loved her ponies and dogs,” one person wrote.
Another added: “I thought I was done tearing up over the Queen passing, but this picture proved me wrong!” Earlier this week, Sarah Ferguson also gave an update on the monarch’s corgis as they settled into their new home.
The pair, Muick and Sandy, were taken in by the Duchess of York and Prince Andrew following the Queen’s death. The Duchess said that it was a “big honour” to take on Her Majesty’s beloved pets, and added that she had since grown accustomed to the fact that “the carpet moves as I move” as the dogs accompany her around the house.
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