OFFICERS from Northumbria Police’s Mounted Section have asked the public for their help in their search for new horses.

The section is one of the most popular departments in the force. If they’re not policing a football match then you may be able to find them patrolling through the local community to deter anti-social behaviour.

When they’re not at work the horses spend their time relaxing at their stables in County Durham. And now officers are on the hunt for new members of the team

PC Julia Wright said: “When they’re out on patrol they get a lot of attention from the public, but they 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.

“We are always on the hunt for new horses to purchase and are asking horse owners to consider whether their animal would be suitable for a career in the police.”

The force is looking to recruit horses between 16.2hh and 17.3hh of a draught type, that could be a Clydesdale, Shire, Irish Draught or a cross.

They say they will consider both mares and geldings between the ages of five and 12-years-old. Suitable horses will be taken on a four week trial.

Anyone interested can contact PC Wright on 07590011332 or by email on julia.wright.8228@northumbria.pnn.police.uk