An Oxfordshire brewery is mourning the loss of Commander, a magnificent working Clydesdale and familiar figure on his delivery rounds.

Head Coachman Nick Carter and Groom Alyster at Hook Norton Brewery have nominated Commander to be our Hero Horse number 33. The pair say they were “beyond heartbroken” when this gentle giant died recently following a short illness. 

Commander joined the brewery in 2019, a larger-than-life horse with the gentlest of hearts and cheekiest of characters. A friend and colleague, says Nick, with a CV which no horse will ever beat. He was an iconic TV star appearing alongside Pam Ayres and inspiring her to pen a poem. Commander even transported actor Martin Clunes at The Horse of The Year Show. A winner of hearts at village fetes, outside local pubs or gracing the grounds of Blenheim Palace, he always drew a crowd of admirers. He was a recent show ring superstar winning numerous trophies and rosettes, all proudly displayed at the brewery.

Heavy horses have always been a key part of life and tradition at Hook Norton Brewery. Commander has left his mark on that rich tapestry. Nick tells us: “To celebrate his life we have brewed a unique and limited edition beer. Command and Conquer is a fitting tribute to a noble horse and friend who did exactly that. He was a loyal colleague of the brewery for the last four years of his life, a steady hand with a larger-than-life character. We’re thrilled to honour his legacy with this premium ale and keep the traditions of working horses going here at the Brewery forever.”

The War Horse Memorial is grateful that a donation from the sales of the beer will be made to to help us honour the service of animals in war and provide a lasting legacy for animals in need.

Hook Norton Brewery, now one of only three breweries in the UK with working shire horses, is keen to promote and support the heavy horse breed. Shire horses remain at critical risk of extinction. Their numbers are rapidly declining due to no longer having a use in agricultural work. Despite this they do make fantastic riding horses and their popularity is slowly growing year by year. The Shire Horse Society aims to spread awareness and promote the breed, striving to ensure their survival for future years to come.

Hook Norton Brewery has recently achieved the accolade of ‘Shire Horse Society Approved Centre’ status, meeting a rigorous set criteria ensuring their stables confirm to the highest of standard. The knowledgeable team on site are working in unison with the society to support and raise awareness of these magnificent animals.

In the first years of World War One, the countryside was emptied of shire horses and riding ponies. A heartbreaking prospect for farming families who saw their finest and most beloved horses requisitioned by the government. They were essential to pull heavy guns, to transport weapons and supplies, to carry the wounded and dying to hospital and to mount cavalry charges. 

Contrast that with present times. The brewery has three shire horses, Brigadier, Nelson and Lady Grey. They live the life of luxury in their purpose built onsite stables, accompanied by 18 acres of rolling Cotswold countryside enabling them to graze at their leisure.

To visit the brewery, book tours or for all online purchase enquiries:

Website click here

Tel: 01608 730384
Fax: 01608 730294

Email: vc@hooky.co.uk

Address: Hook Norton Brewery, Brewery Lane, Hook Norton, Banbury OX15 5NY.