Rural Mounted Volunteers for Dorset

Dorset Police officially welcomed its first Rural Mounted Volunteers at a launch ceremony which took place at Kingston Maurward College last month.

Rural Mounted Volunteers will be the eyes and ears for rural communities. Volunteers on horseback will engage with local rural communities while out on their regular hacks along bridleways, lanes and country roads, gathering important information and reporting anything suspicious to the Rural Crime Team to help protect rural communities.

All volunteers have been issued with a high-visibility jacket featuring 'Police Volunteer' and their horses have been equipped with reflective sheets and leg wrappings.

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick and Dorset Police Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Neil Corrigan opened the welcome ceremony.

Dorset Police Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Neil Corrigan said: "This team of dedicated volunteers will be working alongside the Dorset Police Rural Crime Team, reporting suspicious people, vehicles and activity.

"With their elevated positions on horseback, the Rural Mounted Volunteers have a unique vantage point and can spot many things that someone on foot or in a vehicle might not otherwise be able to see or even be able to get near to.

"This vital intelligence sharing will ensure our teams are targeting their patrols and enforcement in the right areas, keeping people feeling safe where they live and work."

Dorset Police volunteers come from all walks of life and bring with them an array of skills and experiences. Sharing their knowledge and time with the police will make a positive impact on all rural communities across Dorset.

ACC Corrigan concluded: "Our Rural Mounted Volunteers will make a real difference in helping us to tackle crime our rural areas. They are a valuable link between the police and rural communities, particularly in the more isolated areas, and this is something we've been prioritising."