IT’S not every day you see the mounted division in the High Street of Wellington — but not to worry, there wasn’t an incident, just a training opportunity for the latest recruit.

Police Horse Max was joined on patrol by Avon and Somerset Police mounted section’s newest recruit, trainee Police Horse Gordon.

Gordon is a 17.3hh pure Irish Draught gelding who came from a private home in Salisbury.

Police Horse Max, a 16.3hh Irish Draft, only joined the force in 2024 himself but is already proving to be a steady pair of reins when it comes to new recruits.

Despite his young age (seven at the time of entry), Max learnt from the best — taking confidence from his more experienced colleagues, Mendip, Redcliffe and St Michael — and now it is his turn to show a new recruit the ropes.

Following their trip through town — which garnered plenty of interest from passers by — PC Amy Huxtable, from Avon and Somerset Police mounted section, said: “Police Horse Max was on patrol in Wellington as part of the training for Police Horse Gordon, our newest recruit.

Police Horses Max and trainee Gordon waiting patiently for traffic to move on
Police Horses Max and trainee Gordon waiting patiently for traffic to move on (John Thorne)

“Gordon is a 17.3hh pure Irish Draught gelding, is eleven years old, and came from a private home in Salisbury, arriving mid-August.

“Before coming to us he took part in countryside rides and was really part of the family. His previous owners are looking forward to seeing how he progresses in his career as a Police Horse and were very proud when he passed his trial with flying colours.”