A horse whose life was saved by after an appeal in the Borehamwood Times was hot to trot at this year’s parade.

One-eyed Rue represented Borehamwood Station cars as the company’s street advertiser Bob Bassey dressed as a Storm Trooper to ride him through the streets.

The 20-year-old pony suffered a severe eye infection in 2012 and there were concerns that he would have to be put down.

But Mr Bassey said that he would take him from the previous owner, and after an article highlighting his situation, £800 was raised for eye surgery.

He said: “Just because a horse has lost an eye it does not mean you have to get rid of them. They can still do normal things, like other horses, just like a human.

“Losing his eye has not stopped him. He is very laid-back, very relaxed, he just takes it all in his stride.

“He has got used to the dressing up. In fact, I think he quite likes all the attention.”

The dapple grey gelding is also owned by Elaine Cooper of Property Rescue, Manor Way and now lives at Burtonhole Farm, Mill Hill in a field he shares with two other ponies.

Over the years he has made several appearances on behalf of the taxi firm, including several years in the carnival, and is rewarded for his hard work with mints and carrots.