A campaign has been launched to boost membership of a scheme aimed at reducing the thefts of horses in and around Kidderminster and Stourbridge.

Horsewatch was set up in the region 15 years ago to help prevent and detect equine crime. It has around 60 registered members but more are now being urged to come forward and join the scheme.

Its aim is to promote crime prevention advice and share information.

An automated telephone system is used to pass recorded information to members, who are also issued with a pack containing crime prevention advice and a laminated HorseWatch poster to deter offenders.

In addition they can borrow, free of charge, die stamping equipment to postcode saddles and bridles.

Owners are asked to be vigilant and to note the descriptions and vehicle registrations of anyone seen acting suspiciously. The group has links with West Merica Police. North Worcestershire Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator Mr Mel Clarke, who also runs HorseWatch, said: “We believe thieves involved in equestrian crime know what they are doing, and that very often they are stealing to order. The tack can be worth many thousands of pounds and thefts are very distressing for owners.”

Police are also promoting the use of SmartWater to HorseWatch members. Smartwater, a property marking system, can be used on tack and other equipment to deter thieves and enable police to trace stolen items back to their rightful owners.

HorseWatch members can buy SmartWater at a discounted rate

The contacts for Horsewatch are: Bromsgrove and Redditch area – Mr Mel Clarke, Hagley area – Pc Hilary Cleves, Wyre Forest area – Pc Pauline Montague, Pc Sally Sliwinska, CSO Hollie Tipper and CSO Kate Easthope, Wythall area – Pc Lucy Thornton, and they can all be called on 08457 444888.