Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews has met the volunteers who have stepped forward to become part of Leicestershire Police's Volunteers on Horseback Scheme.

The 20 new recruits have volunteered to become the 'eyes and the ears' of the countryside to help the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland PCC protect rural communities from crime and anti-social behaviour.

The delivery of a Volunteers on Horseback Scheme is a key priority in the PCC's Police and Crime Plan. He called upon the Chief Constable to develop new and innovative ways to mobilise rural communities across the two counties in the fight against crime.

The new volunteers, who will be responsible to the force's Rural Sergeant, will support Neighbourhood Policing Teams and Rural Policing Teams with issues impacting rural communities while also exercising their horses.

They will also be asked to assist in rural crime prevention initiatives and locally-based operations, to develop contacts with farms and local businesses, provide advice to the public and increase feelings of safety by providing reassurance and visible patrols.

Police Crime Commisioner for Leicestershire and Rutland, Rupert Matthews. Image credit: PCC.

Mounted Volunteers Co-ordinator PC Kelly Tones said: "The mounted volunteers are a real asset to the Rural Team and the scheme will be an excellent way to further engage with our rural communities in the harder to reach areas.

"They are also a crucial part of Operation Snaffle, which is Leicestershire Police's response to improving the safety of horses and riders on our road network.

"We have recruited a really good team spread across the entire county and I am really looking forward to working alongside them, listening to their ideas and developing the scheme further."

The volunteers, who will work flexibly depending on availability, have already taken part in an induction session to help understand their new role and additional training relevant to the role within the force.

Mr Matthews said: "Tackling rural crime is one of my key priorities. I am delighted to launch Leicestershire Police's Volunteers on Horseback Scheme - a resource I have fought hard to develop since my election.

"Our Volunteers on Horseback will provide a special service to our rural communities, using their unique vantage point on horseback to retrieve valuable information and intelligence that will help local officers solve crime and keep residents safe.

"They will not only provide much-needed reassurance to their communities but will provide a valuable service by building connections with landowners, businesses, residents and farmers and providing an additional bridge between rural officers and the local people they serve.

"I would like to thank every volunteer who has stepped into this new and exciting role. Your support is gratefully received."