Captain Mark Edward, who was born and raised in Necton, is troop leader and gave visitors a sight to remember when he led them, gun carriages and all, at full gallop out of the arena and along the horse-drive at the end of each display.

The Royal Norfolk is one of the only grounds in the country capable of accommodating the troop at full gallop as it has the long, straight drive from the arena.

Capt Edward (31) said it was "fantastic" to be back in Norfolk and heading one of the best-known military spectacles in the country.

"The crowd have been fantastic. The show has one of the highest profiles in the country and we have had tremendous support from the county," he said.

Capt Edward, who will become a major next month, has served in the Army for ten years, but was a former pupil at Necton First and Middle Schools before moving to Hunstanton's Glebe House.

He attended Sandhurst Academy before joining the Royal Horse Artillery and has seen action in Kuwait and Iraq. He has served around the world during his career, but said it was always good to be in Norfolk.

"The county gives tremendous support to the military and it is fabulous to be back," he said.

Capt Edward said he had ridden "a bit" as a child, but was determined to join the troop when, during his time at Oakham School, Rutland, he was able to spend some time with the Royal Horse Artillery.

In all some 82 horses and 100 soldiers were relocated from their North London home at St John's Wood to the showground and nearby Easton College.

Their twice-daily displays were a show highlight with packed arenas and crowds lining the horse-drive for the gallop.

The King's Troop was formed after the Second World War on the orders of King George VI, who wanted to carry on the tradition of a mounted artillery unit based in London for ceremonial duties.

It fires the royal salutes in Hyde Park on royal anniversaries and state occasions and provides a gun carriage and team of black horses for state and military funerals.

The troop also acts as The Queen's bodyguard for three weeks each year.