Pomp and precision as the Household Calvary prepares for German state visit

Around 90 horses and riders from the British Army's Household Cavalry have spent hours meticulously clipping, polishing and gleaming their kit as they prepare to welcome German president Frank-Walter Steinmeier and First Lady Elke Büdenbender.

Marking the first German state visit to the UK in 27 years, Windsor Castle will serve as the setting for three days of pageantry, politics and culture, hosted by the King and Queen.  

More than 950 personnel from across all services of the Armed Forces 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 joins the division ahead of the state visit taking place between 3 and 5 December – a visit that will be especially meaningful for one soldier in particular.