A police force is asking for the public to help recruit new four-legged colleagues to its mounted section.
Founded in 1857, Northumbria Police's Mounted Section was started with just one horse, a gift to the then Chief Constable. Fast forward to present day and the team now boasts a team of seven with room for two more.
Sergeant Stu Coates heads the unit, which includes seven highly-trained police constables and four passionate grooms.
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Sgt Coates said: “We take very good care of the horses who work for Northumbria Police as they are a vital part of our specialist unit, whilst carrying out a role like no other. 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 say hello. But they also have a serious job to do and they are a fantastic asset to have, no more so than in public order scenarios whether that be a protest or a football match.”
The force are looking to recruit horses between 16.3hh and 18.0hh of a draught type, that could be a Clydesdale, Shire, Irish Draught or a cross. Both mares and geldings between the ages of five and 12 years old will be considered.
There is no requirement to be well schooled but the ability to walk, trot and canter is preferred. It is also desirable for them to be good with farrier, to clip and load in traffic.
Anyone who believes their horse would be well suited to a life in the force, should contact the mounted team who, after initial discussions, will arrange a visit. If the equine looks promising, next they will be invited to take part in a four-week trial and if they pass their trial and a vetting, then they will undergo an intensive training course.
Sgt Coates said: “The course isn’t easy and not every horse is cut out for a life in the police force – 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 treat.
“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 – our horses Pluto and Parker escorted the late HM Queen Elizabeth to her final resting place in Windsor Castle.”
If successful during recruitment, officers love to keep previous owners up to date in how their beloved horse is progressing and are allowed to visit the section. Do you think your horse has what it takes? Email the team at beverly.crain@northumbria.police.uk
