HORSE riders in Potters Bar and the surrounding area are being urged to help fight crime in Hertsmere.

Under a scheme known as Horse Watch, horse owners will be asked to tell police when items of equipment are stolen from stables and report suspicious behaviour that they observe while out riding.

Horse Watch was officially launched by the Hertsmere Community Partnership (CSP) on Thursday, and follows on from the success of the Dog Watch scheme launched last July.

The CSP includes a number of organisations including the police, Hertsmere Borough Council and the fire service.

Valerie Kane, the council’s community safety officer, said: “There has been a spate of thefts at stables in the area but the police aren’t always being told so we hope this scheme will encourage horse riders to report incidents in future.

“In addition, horse riders tend to be out and about on quiet roads so they may see things going on that others don’t so we also hope they will inform police about any suspicious behaviour they may see.”

Derrick Sweeney, Neighbour-hood Watch liaison officer at Hertfordshire Constabulary, said: “Becoming involved in Horse Watch will help reduce the opportunity for equine-related crime to occur and help members protect their horses, equipment and vehicles.

“To support Horse Watch, we are using a communications system called OWL – Online Watch Link – which will provide timely details of related incidents so warning can be sent via phone, email or text quickly to members across Hertsmere.”

For more information about Horse Watch call Mr Sweeney on 01727 796650 or email derrick.sweeney@herts.pnn.police.uk