Funding Boost Improves Safety for Mounted Rural Patrol Volunteers

Volunteers supporting rural policing across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight have received new safety equipment following additional funding from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Police and Crime Commissioner and the British Horse Society.

The investment has enabled the force to provide 22 current members of its Mounted Rural Patrol (MRP) volunteer scheme with enhanced high-visibility horse veils and breastplates. The new kit is designed to make both riders and horses more visible while on patrol across rural areas, helping improve safety for volunteers and the public.

Additional equipment has also been secured to support new recruits expected to join the scheme over the coming year.

The Mounted Rural Patrol Volunteer Scheme allows fully vetted riders from local communities to assist the constabulary in tackling rural crime. While out riding, volunteers act as extra “eyes and ears” in the countryside, reporting suspicious activity and sharing intelligence with officers.

The initiative aims to strengthen engagement with rural communities and support crime prevention by encouraging the reporting of suspicious or criminal behaviour, improving communication between residents and police, and helping identify anti-social behaviour and animal-related offences.

Rural crime remains a persistent issue across the region. Illegal hunting practices can harm wildlife, fly-tipping and hazardous waste damage the environment, and farms are often targeted for the theft of high-value machinery, diesel, and livestock.

By increasing visible patrols across rural areas, MRP volunteers help deter offending, provide reassurance to residents, and support policing efforts in locations that can otherwise be difficult to monitor.

The scheme is currently recruiting new volunteers in several areas, including Hart, Rushmoor, Alton and Winchester Rural.

Residents who own a horse and are interested in helping protect the countryside are encouraged to apply.

Further information about volunteering with the Mounted Rural Patrol can be obtained by contacting mountedruralpatrol@hampshire.police.uk.