All the King's horses and all the King's men made a spectacular sight as they exercised on a Cornish beach yesterday.

The world-famous King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery were taking a break from their ceremonial duties and making the most of the sun and sand in Hayle. Thirty horses from the troop's Left Section have been enjoying their summer camp at Gwealavellan Farm near Gwithian under the command of Captain Max Chenery, who brought his dog Tiggy along for the ride.

Captain Chenery said: "This camp is an excellent opportunity for both the horses and soldiers to take a well-earned break from their ceremonial duties in London.

"The Royal Horse Artillery often sends horses to Cornwall in the summer but this is the first time in a number of years that we are going to the Hayle area.

"The horses have a great time on Cornwall's beaches. It's the perfect opportunity for us to give them a good run out."

The King's Troop is the Queen's ceremonial Saluting Battery stationed in St John's Wood, London and was named by King George VI in 1947.

It plays a key role in the firing of royal salutes on royal anniversaries and state occasions and provides a gun carriage and team of black horses for state and military funerals.

Horses from Left Section – the Troop's darkest horses – are used on such occasions.