Off to pastures new

Four brave Greater Manchester Police horses are hanging up their horseshoes and retiring to The Horse Trust's sanctuary in Speen, Buckinghamshire. They have notched up nearly 50 years' service between them and have been involved in a wide range of duties, including policing public order situations, crowd control at football matches and city centre patrols. Three of the horses -- Nickleby, Oliver and Fairfax -- helped to police the recent disorder in Manchester city centre, and Nickleby and Fairfax's last job was policing the Manchester derby match on 23 October. Ann Firth, Groom Team Leader for Greater Manchester Police's Tactical Mounted Unit, said: "The disorder over the summer was challenging for the horses, as their initial reaction in a situation like that is to run away. They dealt with it really well though as they are big, brave horses that everyone loved riding as they knew they'd be safe. All four animals were stalwarts, and were often the first to be selected for operations as they could be used for all types of work and nothing scared them. "They will be hugely missed, but everyone's thrilled that they're getting such a well-deserved retirement at The Horse Trust. After more than a decade pounding the streets of Manchester, it's lovely that they'll get to be horses again and can spend their days grazing in the fields at the sanctuary." Jeanette Allen, Chief Executive Officer of The Horse Trust, said: "We are delighted to offer Nickleby, Oliver, Fairfax and Pridey lifetime sanctuary after their loyal and brave service to the police. Our staff will give them the loving care they need for the remainder of their years." To learn more about Greater Manchester Police's Mounted Unit please visit our website. www.gmp.police.uk