NEW equine blood is needed to bolster a police force’s mounted unit.

Northumbria Police’s mounted section is seeking new recruits to assist football match duties and to help quell incidents of anti-social behaviour.

When not at work, the horses relax in stables in County Durham, where they are pampered by a team of groomers.

Now their officers are on the hunt for new team members.

PC Julia Wright said: “We are always on the hunt for new horses to purchase and are asking horse owners to consider whether their animal would be suitable for a career in the police.”

The force is looking to recruit horses between 16.2 and 17.3 hands high, of a draught type, either Clydesdale, Shire, Irish Draught or a cross.

Mares and geldings aged between five and 12-years-old will be considered, but, they must have no medical issues and should be trainable with a good temperament and no “vices”.

There is no requirement to be well schooled but the ability to walk, trot and canter is preferred.

It is also desirable for them to be good with farrier, to clip, load and in traffic.

Suitable horses will be taken on four-week vetting trials.

PC Wright can be contacted via Julia.wright.8228@northumbria.pnn.police.uk, or by ringing (07590) 011332.