Some 60 people took the chance to get their saddles marked and 30 people signed up to Hertfordshire Police’s Horse Watch scheme at two rural police events on Saturday, August 10.
The events were during the afternoon at Butter Foal Stud and Ellis Equestrian Centre – both on Smug Oak Lane in Bricket Wood.
As well as having their saddles marked and signing up to Horse Watch, visitors to the event had the chance to speak to officers from the Rural Operational Support Team (ROST) and Safer Neighbourhood Team officers about any issues or concerns they have in their local areas.
Through saddle marking, saddles are stamped with a Hertfordshire Constabulary mark and a unique reference number – which is then registered on a database. If the saddle is stolen and then recovered by police, it is easier to return to its rightful owner. Saddle marking also makes it difficult for thieves to sell on stolen saddles. For further information about saddle marking events in your area please call the ROST via 101.
The force’s Horse Watch scheme aims to fight crime and anti-social behaviour in rural areas by improving communication between horse owners, riders and the police. As horse owners and riders are regularly out and about, they are likely to notice anything suspicious or out of the ordinary. Members of Horse Watch are asked to be the eyes and ears of their communities, keep each other informed and report any concerns to police. For further information about how to join Horse Watch visit our website www.herts.police.uk/rural.
The ROST is made up of police officers specialising in rural, wildlife, environmental, heritage crime and equine and traveller liaison issues. They investigate crimes such as badger baiting, hare coursing, nighthawking and the theft of metal from historical buildings.
