This week, The Chase care home in Huntingdon marked Remembrance Day 2025 with a visit from a truly extraordinary guest. Chester, the celebrated horse from Bedfordshire known affectionately as the “The Floppy Ear Pony”, came to the home draped in his trademark coat made from hundreds of hand-knitted and crocheted poppies created by his fans.
He was accompanied by his owner, Samantha Wenn, a former British Army soldier who created Chester’s coat with her mother Eileen as a way to honour the memories of fallen veterans. In 2023, she led Chester on a Remembrance Day procession through her hometown of Sandy, Bedfordshire – and he has since become a powerful emblem of national memory and pride.
Chester made an instant impression as he trotted through The Chase’s garden to greet his hosts. There, the residents spent the afternoon stroking his mane, admiring his coat, and sharing anecdotes from their own lives during wartime. Many still have vivid memories of the war – from being evacuated as children, to having family members sent off to serve on the front.
Jessa Avila, General Manager at The Chase, said: "It was so wonderful welcoming Chester and Sam to the home. At this time of year, remembering all the brave souls who fought and lost their lives in the Second World War is crucial – and for many people Chester has become a symbol of that honour and pride. Many of our residents' lives were personally touched by the war – so whilst it was an enjoyable day, it was also very poignant and emotional at times as well”.
His magnificent poppy coat isn’t the only reason Chester cuts a striking figure. A remarkable brown Irish draft gelding who measures over 7 feet long, he is also an energetic and spirited horse who loves meeting new people. In recent years Chester and Sam have done multiple tours through the country and have raised thousands of pounds for veteran associations like the Royal British legion, and charities and hospices.
Reflecting on Chester’s unexpected rise to fame, Sam said she believes he has become a way for many thousands of fans to honour and acknowledge not only fallen veterans – but also the brave animals that served alongside them. Indeed, over the course of the Second World War many millions of horses, donkeys, and mules died whilst transporting supplies and evacuating injured soldiers from battle.
Unfortunately, their contribution to the war effort is often overlooked – another reason why the team at The Chase wanted to bring Chester to the home for Remembrance Day 2025. Jessa said : "This Remembrance Day, we are taking the time to honour the valiant soldiers of the Second World War and the brave beasts who accompanied them into battle. The contribution of animals to Britain's victory is often overlooked, which is why it’s so wonderful to have a mighty stead like Chester out there to keep their memory alive. 'Lest we Forget', indeed."
The Chase is part of the Connaught Care Collection, an award-winning provider of luxury care homes. It offers state-of-the-art facilities, compassionate care, and a strong commitment to community engagement.
