THE majestic black stallion seen galloping across a beach in the iconic Lloyds Bank television commercial, trotted into Watchet at the weekend to star in a spectacular display put on by top falconer and horse trainer Jonathan Marshall before a fascinated audience at the Esplanade Sunday market.
When Amadeus, a 16-year-old Friesian stallion, was discovered by Jonathan in 2018 he had never been ridden and was threatened with slaughter after the death of his owner.
But after only six months of care and training he was featuring in Jonathan’s show ‘Return of the Black Stallion’, and now has thousands of fans around the world.
Later Amadeus greeted visitors and was pleased to get a pat on the head or a carrot treat from passers-by.
“They love their freedom,” Jonathan says.
“We often go down to the beach where I let the horse run free across the sand or go for a quick swim.”
Jonathan became a falconer in 1983 and over the years has flown a wide variety of birds including eagles, hawks falcons, kites, and owls but says falcons are most suited to his shows.
He says that while on tour, he and Amadeus visit hospitals, care homes, and schools.
“Amadeus is something very special and really does bring happiness to a lot of people,” he says.
Sunday market organiser Molly Quint said: “We were thrilled to welcome the beautiful black horse Amadeus of Lloyds Bank advert fame, with his owner Jonathan.
“Amadeus moved around the small arena being touched by everyone, really enjoying the attention and obeying various commands from his rider.
“Four hooded falcons then joined the display.
“The first one was flown and ended with a high speed swoop through the legs of Amadeus.
“Another bird later flew straight through the legs of Jonathan, a much smaller gap.”
The next Watchet Street Fair is on Sunday, September 1.