New West Midlands Police horses carry out first patrols across the region in over 25 years
Thousands of people met West Midlands Police's new police horses as they carried out their first patrols across the region.
After 26 years, police horses are back in the West Midlands after the Mounted unit was disbanded in 1999.
Following careful research and successful trials using other force horses, Chief Constable Craig Guildford made the decision to re-establish a Mounted unit to serve the West Midlands, and other parts of the country when needed.
The force's new horses will be used for general police patrols as well as football matches and other events. Their height gives their police officer riders the ability to see over crowds, while their size, speed and agility mean they can easily move between obstacles and disperse large groups of people quickly.
Speaking about the first week of patrols, Deputy Chief Constable Scott Green said: “It’s been pleasing to see people’s response to the return of horses.
“For many people, it’s been the first time they have seen a horse up close – let alone a police horse.
“The team have lost count of the number of photographs they’ve had taken, proving they’re an excellent tool in encouraging people of all backgrounds to talk to us and understand how we’re keeping them safe.
“Whether it’s shoppers at the Christmas markets, university students or school children, people have valued seeing this highly visible police presence in their area.
“But it’s been more than just meeting locals. The officers have given advice to people about their driving, conducted stop and searches on suspected drug dealers and even took part in Project Servator – a policing tactic that aims to disrupt criminal activity, including terrorism.
“It’s early days but the Mounted unit are already proving their worth.”
Currently, West Midlands Police have five horses and six riders with more officers in training and in the process of transferring to the West Midlands.
Nine other fully trained police horses have been identified and are currently undergoing extensive health checks before moving to the region.
On Monday officers patrolled Aston and Birmingham city centre. Tuesday saw the animals in Solihull and Coventry, then Dudley and Sandwell on Wednesday. Thursday was dedicated to Walsall town centre and Wolverhampton on Friday.
