Sir, – I had the pleasure of being a guest at Queen Elizabeth II’s 60th Jubilee Celebration Pageant at Windsor Castle on Sunday week. The queen and other members of the royal family were in attendance at the event.
The majority of countries visited by the queen during her reign were represented. There was a spectacular parade of horses – over 800 – many of which were flown into the UK especially for the event.
These magnificent horses performed their amazing routines, as did presenters, dancers and star musical performers from countries including Russia, Canada, US, Mexico, Chile, Azerbaijan, France, Italy, India, Cook Islands and African states, all of which made for a spectacular evening.
When it came to Ireland’s input it was a hugely embarrassing moment.
There wasn’t a horse to be seen. Instead we were treated to a display of traditional Irish dancing by a group of young girls (who of course did their best) but fell far, far short of what the other nations presented.
Where was Riverdance when it was needed? Our bloodstock industry is forever telling us how great our horses are. Where were our Army riders at such a prestigious event? The queen paid us such a successful visit in 2011. Why did we not return the compliment at this prestigious event? – Yours, etc,