Essex Horse Riders Volunteer Scheme: Essex Police and Uttlesford District Council launch crime-fighting trial using horse riders as their eyes and ears in the countryside

A trial crime-fighting initiative which will see horse riders patrolling the countryside has been launched in Uttlesford.

Essex Police has teamed up with the district council to run the Essex Horse Riders Volunteer Scheme, which will involve riders becoming their eyes and ears in rural areas.

With equestrians in the unique position of being able to access areas that police cannot often reach, they can help spot signs of illegal activity, such as hare coursing, theft of agricultural equipment and damage to historical buildings.

"The horseback volunteers will be trained in what to look out for and will be able to report any concerns or suspicious activity to Essex Police, helping us to target those committing offences and stop criminality before it happens," said a spokesperson for the force.

"Rural crime such as those affecting farms, livestock or wildlife can have a unique and significant impact on the livelihoods of farmers but also on protected or endangered species and animals being treated inhumanely.

"Heritage crime can have an equally devastating impact, with sites of historical interest – including our churches, monuments and historic buildings – ruined or lost for our future generations."

Assistant Chief Constable Rachel Nolan, Essex Police’s lead for local policing and the national lead for heritage crime, said: "We always work closely with our communities and this scheme really builds on that. Horse riders really know their local communities and are brilliantly placed to identify and report suspicious behaviour, especially off the beaten track.

“In Essex we have an excellent volunteer network and existing watch schemes – working with the equine community and local authorities, such as Uttlesford District Council, to expand upon this is the natural next step in tackling rural and heritage crime.”

Cllr Maggie Sutton, UDC's portfolio holder for communities, health, youth, public safety and emergency planning, added: "We're hoping for any horse riders in Uttlesford to consider joining us with this scheme and help to be the eyes and ears for our rural communities in reporting suspicious activity and crime.”

Horse riders interested in taking part will need to hold public liability insurance for the horse they ride and their animal must be well cared for. People can register their interest online with Essex Police and will then be invited to attend an introductory event.