About us 

Horse Watch

Horse Watch is a Thames Valley Police initiative to combat equine crime.

The initiative aims to raise awareness of equine crime and improve communication and security among horse owners and riders. It is run in a similar style to Neighbourhood and Home Watch.

Thames Valley Police Horse Watch was set up in response to a number of attacks on horses, including stabbings, in the Hampshire area in the early 1990s.

How do I join?

• Complete an application form (PDF 59 Kb - opens new window) and send it to Horsewatch, Mounted Section, Thames Valley Police, Witan Gate, Central Milton Keynes, MK9 2DS.
• Or call 01908 686075.

Who is involved?

• You do not have to own a horse to become involved. All people with an interest in horses, from occasional riders to livery yard owners, are welcome. People involved in related areas, such as saddlers and feed merchants, are also welcome.
• Horse Watch is a nationwide scheme and is supported by most police forces. Each area has a local group, which is run by a coordinator.
• Each area in Thames Valley Police has a Horse Watch coordinator. This is a member of police staff, and usually someone who owns a horse yard or stables. Horse Watch coordinators look after the interests of Horse Watch members.
• Horsewatch coordinators hold three meetings a year at Thames Valley Police headquarters in Kidlington.

Examples of how Horse Watch works:

• Members are encouraged to note registration numbers of unfamiliar vehicles near stables and land where horses are kept.
• They are also asked to warn police and others about people acting strangely near to where horses are kept and people trespassing on land.
• Members keep an eye on their own horses, nearby neighbours’ horses, equipment and vehicles.
• Officers from Thames Valley Police's Mounted Section gather crime information on equine-related incidents. For example, burglaries from tack sheds or thefts of horses. Horse Watch members are told about this information.
• Your local Horse Watch coordinator can send you information about security, tack marking, shows and events.

For more information, visit the Thames Valley Horse Watch website (opens new window).