Police horses return to West Midlands boosts public safety
Mounted unit educates drivers on road safety around horses
West Midlands Police have reinstated their mounted unit, and the officers and horses have been actively working to improve public safety since their return in December.
The unit's tasks have included searching for missing children in Walsall, conducting anti-drug patrols in Sandwell, addressing illegal e-bike riders in Birmingham, weekend night patrols in Wolverhampton, and protecting football fans in Coventry.
Their efforts are also helping generate income to support the reintroduction of police horses, reported Sergeant Alex Hadley from the mounted unit.
“People’s response to us has been phenomenal,” Hadley said. He highlighted the importance of driver education when encountering horses on the road and shared safety advice with regional bus companies, council gritters, and bin lorry drivers.
Drivers should slow down to 10mph and be prepared to stop when approaching horses, leave a two-metre gap when overtaking, lower loud music, and follow the instructions of police rider officers.
Those who fail to follow these guidelines may face legal consequences, posing risks to both pedestrians and animals.
The British Horse Society (BHS) has developed a series of short films explaining these rules and offering advice to all road users, including bus drivers. Alan Hiscox, Director of Safety at BHS, stressed the importance of collaboration in ensuring the safety of the UK's roads and encourages using the Horse i app to report incidents.
Sgt Hadley emphasized the importance of educating drivers and thanked those who adhere to the rules. He also urged vigilance to prevent injuries, including effective collaboration with bus drivers and council staff.
Mounted officers possess the same powers as other police and are equipped with protective gear, incapacitant spray, bodyworn cameras, and communication radios.
For further information on the police horses, visit the force's website.