Pomp and precision as Household Cavalry welcomes German leader on state visit

Around 90 horses and riders from the British Army's Household Cavalry spent hours meticulously clipping, polishing and preparing their kit before welcoming German president Frank-Walter Steinmeier and first lady Elke Büdenbender to Windsor Castle.

Marking the first German state visit to the UK in 27 years, Windsor Castle serves as the setting for three days of pageantry, politics and culture, hosted by Charles and Camilla.

More than 950 personnel from across all three services will help deliver the ceremonial aspects of the visit, with the Household Division providing a key role – a Sovereign's Escort for the carriage procession.

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In our video above, BFBS Forces News joined the soldiers to show the work that went in ahead of the German leader's arrival.

This is a visit that will be especially meaningful for one soldier in particular.