POLICE on horses will continue to be on patrol in Gloucestershire, following a decision to retain its mounted section.

The force embarked on a one-year trial in 2016 following research in Gloucestershire led by the RAND Institute and the University of Oxford two years ago.

According to police, mounted patrols can reassure communities after significant events have affected a community or as part of day-to-day patrols in neighbourhoods.

They are a cost effective way of managing large crowds and generate a therapeutic effect to prevent panic or violence breaking out.

They are also said to be adept at working in large open areas, for example when searching for vulnerable missing people, often being the only viable asset that can operate on rugged terrain or when fog prevents the police helicopter from taking off.

Police added that the horses are valued at civic events and ceremonial duties or when foot officers need support policing the night time economy.

The mounted section will continue to be based at Highnam Court and will consist of four horses, three police officers, an equine manager and a groom.

The police intends to seek sponsorship for the unit and work towards making it as close to cost neutral as possible.

Chief Constable Rod Hansen said: "The costs of maintaining a small mounted section are acceptable when off-set against the proven benefits the extra capability brings, not least as part of an integral neighbourhood policing service.

"Whilst we must be pragmatic to our current financial situation, Gloucestershire should continue to deliver policing services in a variety of ways that give us the best chance to connect with our communities. In a county so well known for its equestrian interests why wouldn't we be proud to bring horses back into the mix?

"We have to gain and retain the public's trust not only by providing a professional service at times of crisis but also by being approachable and accessible at all times so that people feel confident in helping us.

"Academic findings have shown that members of the public are six times more likely to engage with officers on horseback than officers on foot offering more opportunities for people to talk to us, and share what they know or suspect."

The decision to retain the unit, made by the force executive board earlier this month, has been supported by the Police and Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire Martin Surl.

Mr Surl said, “I understand why this has been a controversial issue and that not everyone was in favour, but the unit has been put through a rigorous trial and has answered all the questions asked of it.

"Throughout this period, horses have been used successfully on a range of tasks. The results bear out what the academic research suggested, namely that they are a big attraction for the public and that people are much more likely to go up and talk to an officer on horseback than one on foot.

"One of the initial arguments was around cost but the Chief Constable assures me he is confident he can generate sufficient income through mutual aid and other avenues to make the section cost effective.

“When they look again at the proven benefits, I hope even those who were most sceptical will recognise a small mounted section as a valuable resource.”