'Yogi' the horse with royal connections given a special award

A very special horse has been awarded an "animal OBE" to celebrate his long service as part of the British military.

Yogi, who is also known as Lord Firebrand, played a key role in huge national moments including leading the procession at Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee celebrations, and her funeral procession in 2022.

He is being awarded the PDSA Order of Merit, which is reserved for animals who have demonstrated outstanding devotion to their owner or wider society.

Yogi retired from service in December 2023 and is known for his calm nature and reliability in big moments.

Captain Amy Cooper, his rider in the build-up to the Queen's funeral, said: "Yogi is the only horse I would trust to deliver such a high-profile parade, under such scrutiny and pressure.

"Yogi is always the first choice for any parade commander."

Yogi was entrusted to lead the Queen's funeral procession through the streets of London

Yogi has become the 55th recipient of the medal after a long career working in royal events.

He participated in big events such as the State Opening of Parliament, Trooping the Colour and many others during his career.

Jan McLoughlin, the director general of the veterinary charity that presents this award, said Yogi provided "unique emotional support" throughout his career which "showcased the special relationship between humans and animals".

"Yogi instilled a sense of trust and belief beyond his general role and responsibility by supporting his rider during high-pressure occasions", she added.

So, who are some of the other animals who have been recognised for their bravery or achievements over the years?

There have now been 55 heroic animals presented with the award - let's remind ourselves of some of them...

Black Labrador Fire Investigation Dog, Reqs’ selfless acts in the British Fire Service earned him the prestigious medal in 2023

12-year-old Reqs had a long and successful career as a Fire Investigation Dog, making him the longest serving within the British Fire Service at the time.

He helps at the scene of a fire by detecting ignitable liquids such as petrol, white spirit, and lighter fluid.

This can help with investigating where fires may have started.

Max was the first "civilian" dog to be awarded the medal

The owner of this gorgeous springer spaniel, began posting videos of their daily walks in the beautiful scenery of the Lake District, and they quickly became a viral hit.

Max, who was nicknamed 'the Miracle Dog', was given his award in 2021 for the "unprecedented" effect he has had on people's wellbeing.

The then-13-year old dog was said to have had a "positive and life-altering impact" on "hundreds of thousands of people worldwide".

He was the first animal not working in the military or emergency services to be given the award.

Hurricane and his owner Marshall

Hurricane is a retired Secret Service dog and he was honoured in 2019 for his service in the home of the United States President.

He was brave enough to stop an intruder from getting into the White House in 2014.

His handler and owner, Officer Marshall Mirarchi, said: "Hurricane was such a legend within the Service. He loved working and his talent for the job impressed me every single day."

The hound leapt into action when a man jumped over the White House fence and sprinted towards the former President Barack Obama.

Hurricane stopped the intruder from getting to Obama - what a hero!

AJ and Alfie wore their medals with pride

Military dogs AJ and Alfie both served in the Royal Air Force for six years.

Alfie and AJ were known to be the best of the best in their roles on searches, where they helped authorities search for dangerous items by sniffing them out in tricky environments.

Provost Marshal (RAF) Group Captain David Wilkinson, said: "To have their actions recognised in this way is truly fantastic and I am immensely proud of everything they both achieved."

Alfie, an English Spaniel and AJ, a black Labrador, were given the award in 2021 for doing such a fantastic job.