Police horse back on the beat

Sgt Blamire said Alamein has recovered well

A police horse injured in violence committed by football hooligans is back on duty in London.

Alamein, who suffered an injury to his front right foreleg, is to spend the weekend patrolling the Buckingham Palace area over the Queen's Golden Jubilee celebrations.

The eight-year-old gelding severed an artery when he reared up and landed on a car after a thunderflash exploded beneath him.

The injury occurred during the disturbances when 900 Millwall football fans rioted after a match on 2 May.

He's 100% fit now

Sergeant Alistair Blamire

About 50 police officers and 26 horses were hurt in the violence.

Alamein has spent a month recuperating at the Metropolitan Police's Mounted Branch headquarters.

Sergeant Alistair Blamire rides Alamein and said he had recovered well.

"He severed an artery on his left knee and various other cuts. We are very pleased with his progress.

"He's 100% fit now."