Farmer rides from Cardiff to London by Shire horse

Gloucestershire-based farmer Jamie Alcock took on the daunting challenge in memory of his brother, who died after being injured as a serving police officer.

His brother John never recovered consciousness and died 14 years after the injury.

To raise money for charity, Mr Alcock, carriage groom Nigel Howard, Shire horses Millie and William and dog Boo Boo Beithe made the journey from MOD St Athan near Cardiff to Hampton Court Palace near London.

Along the way, they stopped in Stow where MP for the Cotswolds, Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, was on hand to lend his support.

The MP said: “It was a real treat to be able to meet M  Alcock and his Shire horses.

“He hopes to raise an enormous amount of money for three very worthwhile charities. I was able to join the team at the Bell in Stow-on-the-Wold to cheer them on, before Mr Alcock drove his pair of shire horses around the marketplace, attracting considerable interest and surprise from locals and visitors alike."

The Cotswold MP even jumped aboard the carriage for a quick ride

He added: “These horses are magnificent animals and when fully grown at seven and half years old they weigh over a tonne.

“Their strength and power, yet gentleness, are the reasons why they are still used for performing a range of heavy duties on Coldcroft Farm in Gloucestershire, owned by Mr Alcock.

"This was a fantastic experience and I wish Mr Alcock and his team all the success in reaching their fundraising target."

Mr Alcock and his team reached Hampton Court Palace on June 20, having set off on June 1.

Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown was impressed by the "strength and power" of the two Shire horses

Money raised will go to Police Care UK, The Royal Air Forces Association, and The Shire Horse Society.

Mr Alcock said: “I support these charities because my brother was injured whilst on duty as a serving Police Officer and died 14 years later having never recovered consciousness. The police charity and support network looked after him and his family throughout this time."

He added: “My grandfather served in the RAF during WWII. My father was a fighter pilot in the RAF and flew aircraft his whole life.

“Sadly, many members of the RAF community, both past and present, have suffered terrible physical and emotional harm while serving their Monarch and country."

To find out more or donate, visit www.peoplesfundraising.com/fundraising/shirehorses2022&tag=.