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At first sight a Police officer patrolling on Horseback in the 21st Century in London may seem a bit out of place. However the Metropolitan Police Service's Mounted Branch has a key role to play in policing the capital.

Whether it is controlling crowds at sporting events and public ceremonies, supporting policing objectives or dealing with riots.

Initially formed to deal with the highwaymen who preyed the turnpike roads within the London area. The modern force owes it roots to Col. Sir Percy Laurie, a retired army officer, who in 1918 took command of the force, laying down the principles of feeding, training and general horse care that remain largely in force today.


To be considered for selection as a Mounted Branch Officer you must have served at least two years on ordinary unifrom duties, have experience of public order situations and pass a fitness test. The officers selected do not have to have previous equestrian experience to be candidates.


All recruits are given a rigorous course of riding instruction, taught basic veterinary care, stable management before being sent to the Met's stables for their probationary period. The Horse's, which can cost nearly £4,000 each are bought from Breeders in Yorkshire. They are half or three-quarter bred animals, as these have proved to be the best for Police work, combining the Spirit of the Thoroughbred with the strength and stability of a draught horse.

The Horses are taught not to be afraid of traffic, brass bands, missiles and petrol bombs, with part of their training putting them in situations with fire and smoke and rioting crowds. Although in training nothing harder than a tennis ball is thrown at them.

Normal duties consist of a four-hour patrol through the streets followed by care for the horse and tack.

With it being estimated that one officer on a horse being able to control a crowd as effectively as a dozen foot officers, the Mounted Branch's main role is crowd control, with many public and ceremonial events being policed by them.

For more information about careers with the Metropolitan Police Mounted Branch visit - www.met.police.uk