New police recruits must be tall, fearless and fond of a sly snack
Would your horse be suitable for a career in the police? Now could be their chance!
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.
He 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 Police is looking to recruit draughttype 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.
It is also desirable for the horses to be good with a 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 fourweek 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 colleagues Peroni, Perth, Pluto, Percy, Penelope, Patronus, Potter and Parker.
Contact Sgt Coates at 2879@northumbria.pnn. police.uk