Mounted Police Return to West Midlands Streets After 25 Years
After more than a quarter-century hiatus, mounted police are making a grand comeback in the West Midlands. Chief Constable Craig Guildford has brought horses back to boost policing and public safety across the region.
New Mounted Unit Takes the Reins
Following months of preparation and trial runs at football matches, five mighty horses have saddled up and hit the streets. Belgravia, Bruce, Yonkers, Yve, and Yvonne started their official patrols from their base at Tally Ho! stables in Edgbaston, Birmingham. They now roam all boroughs of the West Midlands, adding muscle and presence to the force.
Sgt Hadley leads the new squad, joined by officers PCs Dixey, Masterson, Preece, Pritchard, and Smith. The team is ready to serve locally—and even provide support to other forces when needed.
Meet the Mounted Police Stars
- Belgravia: 8-year-old bay Clydesdale, towering at 17 hands (1.73m).
- Bruce: 8-year-old grey Irish Draught, standing 16.2 hands (1.65m).
- Yonkers: 9-year-old grey Irish Draught, 16.2 hands (1.65m).
- Yve: 9-year-old chestnut Irish Draught, 16.3 hands (1.66m).
- Yvonne: 13-year-old grey Irish Draught, 16.2 hands (1.65m).
These majestic steeds receive top-notch veterinary care, expert grazing, and daily attention to keep them fit and ready for the streets.
Back on Patrol: A Proud Policing Tradition
Mounted police have been a symbol of law enforcement in the West Midlands since 1840. The first female mounted officer, Kay Weale, joined in 1985. However, the unit was scrapped in 1999, deemed outdated and too costly.
Now, with fresh energy and strategy, the West Midlands Police are bringing back the might of mounted law enforcement—and this time, they’re here to stay.
