Chester the poppy horse from Sandy has his sight saved thanks to 'outpouring' of donations
A much loved animal who led Sandy's Remembrance parade has had his sight saved thanks to an "outpouring" of generous donations.
'Chester the poppy horse' received emergency specialist treatment after an eye sore led to immune-mediated keratitis – a condition where his own immune system attacked the surface of his eye.
His owner Samantha Wenn, who lives in Sandy, is now passing on a "heartfelt thank you" to everyone who contributed to his online fundraiser – which raised over £1,600 to cover the cost of his veterinary bills, medication and after care.
She told the Chronicle: "Our much‑loved horse Chester — our gentle companion who helps us tell the forgotten stories of the Great War’s service horses — suffered a serious, sight‑threatening eye injury a few months ago.
"At our lowest point, our vet warned us we might not be able to save his vision.
"We were overwhelmed by the outpouring of kindness from local residents."
Chester is now enjoying a well‑earned rest period and is rebuilding his strength ahead of his packed programme of armed forces events, country shows and public appearances in 2027.
The hardworking horse is part of The Floppy Ear Pony WW1 Display Team – whose human colleagues spend hours researching histories, travelling to fairs and collectors, and preparing displays so "these quiet heroes are never forgotten".
Samantha said: "It is easy for war horse history to slip from view, remembered only in the few weeks leading up to Remembrance Day.
"We believe their sacrifice deserves year‑round recognition.
"Over one million equines left British shores between 1914 and 1918. They hauled heavy artillery and endless supply wagons through deep mud, carried riders and messengers under fire, and endured cold, hunger, injury and fear they could never comprehend."
Recognising Chester's important role, members of the community have also gifted the team original First World War items and handmade remembrance pieces – for which they say "a sincere thank you".
Samantha added: "We have started our next project for 2027, where the local community has come together once again.
"We are creating a beautiful poppy blanket for our 8ft x 6ft horse box, which is our biggest project yet.
"It will be covered from head to toe in red and purple poppies and displayed at our upcoming events in 2027."
Members of the team were also "astonished and deeply grateful" to receive two award nominations.
The team has been shortlisted for Community Project of the Year in the Luton and Bedfordshire Community Awards, in recognition of its ongoing work raising public awareness of the millions of horses, mules and donkeys that served in the First World War.
And its social media page has been nominated for Social Media of the Year in the Equestrian Business Awards 2026, for "sharing these little‑known stories all year round".
Samantha concluded: "We cannot wait to bring these important stories to more communities across the region in 2027."
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