Can you help Northumbria Police find a new horse to join its Mounted Section?

Officers in Northumbria Police’s Mounted Section are asking for help in the search for a new recruit.

Founded in 1857, the force’s Mounted Section began with just one horse.

In 2020, the team is headed by Sergeant Stu Coates, who said: “We take very good care of the horses who work for Northumbria Police and they get pampered by the fantastic team we have here.

“When they’re out on patrol they get a lot of attention from the public who love to find out a bit about them and give them a stroke.

“But they also have a serious job to do and they are a fantastic asset to have in public order scenarios whether that be a protest or a football match.”

Northumbria is looking to recruit draught-type horses – such as a Clydesdale, Shire, Irish Draught or a cross – between 16.2 and 17.3 hands, and aged between five and 12.

The ability to walk, trot and canter is preferred and it’s desirable for them to be good with farrier, to clip, load and in traffic.

Anyone who believes their horse is suitable can contact the Mounted Team, who may arrange a visit.

Next, the horse could be invited to take part in a four-week trial. If successful, they will then embark on an intensive training course.

Sgt Coates added: “The course isn’t easy and not every horse is cut out for a life in the police– they need to be resilient, fearless and genuinely fond of attention as a huge part of our role is engaging with the public and people love to come say hello to our horses and give them a pat and a sly snack.

“But if they are up to the challenge - rest assured they will be immensely well cared for and loved by all our riders, grooms and the wider policing family here at Northumbria Police. This is an honourable job for any horse.”

The new recruit would be given a name beginning with P, joining Peroni, Perth, Pluto, Percy, Penelope, Patronus, Potter and Parker.

Contact Sgt Coates at [email protected].

A message from the Editor:

Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.

The dramatic events of 2020 are having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers and consequently the advertising that we receive.

We are now more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news by buying a copy of our newspaper.

If you can, please do pick up a copy when you are at the shops.

Thank you for your support.