The Queen of England finally came face to face with a violent protest in Ireland today – as a horse kicked out in anger at the National Stud in County Kildare.

One of the country’s top stallions reared up on his hind legs within yards of the Queen as she visited the world renowned stud farm.

The horse succeeded where dissident Republicans have failed all week by showing dissent to the Royal party.

The Queen, a noted horse enthusiast, was cool as can be as the horse reared up during her morning tour of the County Kildare establishment that is worth millions to the Irish economy.

---------------------

READ MORE: 

Horse rears up on Queen in National Stud 

Irish Americans welcome Queen's historic visit to Ireland

The Queen turns down a free pint of Guinness - VIDEO & PHOTOS

Security code red as Queen visits British Army massacre site

--------------------

She also met with students from the Irish Racing Academy at the nearby Curragh racecourse and chatted with some of Ireland’s top national hunt trainers.

The wayward horse is the only unhappy camper to come into contact with the Queen of England as Irish police again mount a massive security operation on the third day of her four day visit.

Later this afternoon, the Queen and the British Ambassador to Ireland will host a party at Dublin’s new National Convention Centre.

Entertainment for the 2,000 guests – drawn from the world of business, showbiz and sport – will be provided by Westlife, Riverdance and X-Factor sensation Mary Byrne.

A fashion show at the Centre will also feature work by Ireland’s top designers, many of whom export to Britain.

Day three of the Queen’s visit was overshadowed by the death of former Irish Prime Minister Garret Fitzgerald on Thursday morning.

The English monarch joined those who paid tribute to the former Fine Gael leader.

“I was saddened to hear this morning’s news of the death of the Garret FitzGerald, a true statesman. He made a lasting contribution to peace and will be greatly missed,” said the Queen.