Volunteer horse riders have teamed up with Humberside Police as community safety mounted volunteers to help tackle rural crime and improve safety in the East Riding’s vast countryside. Using their regular riding routes, the 10 trained volunteers act as additional eyes and ears for the police, covering areas difficult to patrol by car or on foot. They have already patrolled over 520 miles, reported road-related offences, and supported vulnerable residents in isolated locations. Volunteers like Julie Hyam and Geraldine Birks also raise awareness about dangerous driving near horses, emphasizing the risks posed by speeding vehicles.

The initiative, supported by police officers and local authorities, aims to strengthen police visibility, enhance community engagement, and address key issues such as road safety and rural crime. PC Susan Scott highlighted that the scheme originated from riders themselves wanting to contribute their time, and plans are underway to expand the program to cover North and North East Lincolnshire. Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Leo Hammond praised the scheme for providing a unique service to remote areas that may not frequently see police patrols, reinforcing the force’s commitment to rural safety.