Horseback Volunteers To Assist Police Across Harborough

Volunteers on horseback have been recruited to help spot and report crime in the countryside across Harborough.

They will act as ‘the eyes and ears’ for Leicestershire Police while out riding in rural areas by providing information on issues impacting their communities.

Police & Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews & PC Kelly Tones with two of the mounted volunteers

There are 20 volunteers across the county, including riders based in Lubenham, Kibworth, Smeeton Westerby, Tilton On The Hill and Willoughby Waterleys.

They will also be asked to assist with Operation Snaffle, which is the force’s response to improving the safety of horses and riders on our road network and be involved in rural crime prevention initiatives.

PC Kelly Tones for the Rural Policing Team has helped set-up the Volunteers on Horseback Scheme:

Two of the mounted volunteers

Leicestershire’s Police and Crime Commission  Rupert Matthews said: “Our Volunteers on Horseback will provide a special service to our rural communities, using their unique vantage point on horseback to retrieve valuable information and intelligence that will help local officers solve crime and keep residents safe.

“They will not only provide much-needed reassurance to their communities but will provide a valuable service by building connections with landowners, businesses, residents and farmers and providing an additional bridge between rural officers and the local people they serve.

“I would like to thank every volunteer who has stepped into this new and exciting role. Your support is gratefully received.”