A Long Serving Northumbria Police Recruit is Heading off to Pastures New

There’ll be ‘neigh’ more work for police horse Pern who is retiring after 16 years with the force.

The chestnut gelding, who is over 17 hands high, has been a ‘mane player’ with the Mounted Section since he was just four.

Now he will see out the rest of his days at equine charity The Horse Trust in Buckinghamshire, an organisation that specialises in offering respite and retirement to the country’s working horses from places such as police forces and the army.

Sergeant Andy Cross said: “Pern has been a fantastic police horse and there are certainly going to be a lot of sad people at the Mounted Section when he leaves.

“He thoroughly enjoyed his job and just came alive when he went to work. As soon as he went out on patrol his ears would prick up.

“He is absolutely fearless and reliable and over the years he has been responsible for helping to train many of the younger, inexperienced horses.”

During his career, Pern has policed football matches, demonstrations, royal visits and other high profile events all over the country.

Unfortunately, he now suffers from arthritis and will leave the force on February 13.

Sgt Cross added: “A police horse has a very demanding job and sadly Pern’s old bones can’t stand up to the rigours of fours hours a day out patrolling anymore.

“He has done amazingly well to last in a working environment for over 16 years.

“He is definitely ready for retirement and it will be a well-earned rest, but he will be missed greatly.”

Jeanette Allen, Chief Executive of The Horse Trust said, ” Pern is the first horse to be retired to The Trust from Northumbria Mounted Police and we are delighted to welcome him to our stables. Pern will be joining our family of retired, working horses that have served their country and community and those less fortunate animals  that are in need of special treatment.  I am sure Pern will be very happy in his new home after his long service with the police and he will be a lovely addition to our herd of horses.”

The Horse Trust is a registered charity that relies on donations from the public