I had the chance to visit the Thames Valley Mounted Police stables last week, and it was an experience I won’t forget.
The first thing that struck me was, of course, the horses. Each one was stunning in their own right, but I’ll admit I had a soft spot for Harper. There’s something about the way he carried himself — calm, steady, yet full of quiet strength — that really stayed with me and so handsome too!
What impressed me even more was the sheer range of work the Mounted Section takes on. It’s not just ceremonial duties or patrols in Buckinghamshire. Their reach goes far wider, and the impact they have is remarkable. From crowd management at huge events like football matches and music festivals, to high-visibility patrols in town centres, their presence is both practical and reassuring. They’re also deployed to support public order operations well outside of the county, lending their skills to events and situations across the region.
Behind all of this is a dedicated team whose commitment is clear the moment you walk into the stables. Every horse is cared for with meticulous attention, and every officer speaks with pride about the work they do. It’s a demanding role, balancing the care of the horses with the responsibilities of policing, but they approach it with professionalism and passion.
I also had the pleasure of meeting Sarah who volunteers at the stables. A retired police officer herself, she knew of the mounted section, had always admired their work and took the brave step into something new volunteering at the yard as part of the next chapter of her life. It is clear that Sarah loves being part of the team but also that they benefit from her support and outside energy.
Seeing it all up close gave me a new respect not only for the horses, but for the people who work alongside them every day. The Thames Valley Mounted Police are far more than a symbolic presence — they are a hardworking, highly skilled team making a real difference, both here in The Thames Valley and well beyond.
