Army horse dies after being run over in Hyde Park

An army horse died on parade yesterday in a tragic accident in Hyde Park.

The animal, called Murphy, had to be put down after it tripped and was run over by the wheels of a gun wagon during the Royal Gun Salute which takes place on June 2 each year to mark the coronation of the Queen.

The horse was dragged across the grass and had to be put down because of a 'complex fracture' of his leg.

He was put down immediately by injection from a vet who arrived on the scene.

Soldiers erected a tent around the animal to shield onlookers from the distressing scene which took place shortly before midday.

An army spokesman said: 'Unfortunately the horse, called Murphy, became entangled in the gun carriage which was being moved into position and very sadly broke its leg.