Last King's Troop parade for Regent’s Park - St John's Wood Barracks set to close next year

Published: 22 April 2011
by KARINA WHALLEY

THUNDERING hooves beat the air as a marching band led a military display of over a hundred royal riders and chariot-drawn cannons, racing in formation around Regent’s Park, writes Karina Whalley.

But Monday saw the last King’s Troop parade to be held in the park, as the troop’s base in St John’s Wood Barracks is to be shut down by next year.

“The ceremonies are basically PR for the army. It’s just a very nice thing to see,” said Malcolm Kafetz, chairman of the Friends of Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill.  One spectator said: “I’ve cycled down from Luton just to see the parade but sometimes there are more horses performing than people watching.”

The troop will be moving 15 miles to Woolwich after the 100-year lease at St John’s Wood expires in March 2012. Developers Eyre Estate are to turn the site into apartments. 

Last year, when the plans were announced, Mr Kafetz told the West End Extra: “It’s very sad. I feel we’re losing something that’s very enjoyable, even it if is only a couple of times a year.”

Back in 1947, George VI was so impressed by the troop’s display that he gave them his own name – the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery. They are now one of the most prestigious ceremonial regiments in the army. 

The troop also performs some operational functions as described by one of the young gunners, 21-year-old Nathan Stevens. He said: “I’ve just returned from Afghanistan after volunteering to go out there for six-and-a-half months. 

“I’ve received really good training so you learn to treat it like a job when you’re out there.”