Exercise Paro - National Mounted Training Day

On Wednesday 27 May, Thames Valley Police will host a national mounted training day at Upper Heyford, near Bicester. Exercise Paro is the first joint operation of its kind in ten years and will bring together 32 horses from eight police forces across the UK and Northern Ireland. Training exercises will take place throughout the day.

With mounted resources in increasing demand, this event provides a valuable opportunity to share best practice and strengthen national capability.

The exercise was devised and is being led by Sergeant Heidi Cornick from our mounted section, part of a joint operations unit with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary. She said:

“Exercise Paro is a national mounted training day designed to prepare police units across the UK to work together effectively during public order incidents. It brings together horses, riders and commanders from different forces to practise joint tactics, improve interoperability, and develop both experienced teams and newer ‘remount’ horses in a safe, controlled environment.

“This training is vital. Recent increases in public disorder and protest activity, alongside upcoming large-scale events, mean there is a growing need for strong national coordination and operational readiness. By standardising skills, strengthening collaboration and ensuring officers meet required training standards, Exercise Paro will help ensure mounted units can respond safely, confidently and effectively to both planned and spontaneous incidents.”

Media are invited to attend the training day at Upper Heyford. Those wishing to attend must register in advance by contacting [email protected]

Sergeant Heidi Cornick will be available for interviews following the event, and at limited times during the day. Please contact [email protected] to arrange.