That’s because Ajax, who is owned by Islander Alan Roberts, is about to be adopted as a mascot for one of the City of London’s livery companies.
To ensure he will be able to cope with loud noises, crowds and traffic – which he will have to contend with in his role as a mascot for the Worshipful Company of Coopers – the 13-year-old shire has been undergoing desensitisation training. And as part of his training, Ajax proudly stood outside Gaspé House on the Esplanade, as the building has a lot of activity, with many people entering and leaving, as well as glass and revolving doors, all of which could spook a horse.
The exercise was held because later this month Ajax is due to have four police horses escort him to a ceremony in London at which he will be made a Freeman of the Livery company.
It is the first time Coopers, which dates back to the 16th century and is now a social and charitable enterprise that still focuses on the ancient craft of cask-making, has had a mascot.
Mr Roberts, a 56-year-old insolvency practitioner from Grouville, who is a member of the livery company, said: ‘It [the training] is doing me and him good. Training builds confidence for the rider. We are very much a team.’
