MEET Barton, Boris and Teddington, the lastest full-time recruits to Glou­cestershire Police.

Chief constable of Gloucestershire, Rod Hansen joined Police and Crime Commissioner Martin Surl and his deputy Chris Brierly at Highnam last week to announce that, following a successful, 18-month trial, the force would be keeping its mounted capability.

He said research showed mounted police generate six times more positive interactions with the public and are also six times more visible.

He added: “They also maintain high levels of trust and confidence which are essential ingredients for a service that polices by consent.”

The mounted section will be based at Highnam Court and, when at full strength, will consist of four horses, three police officers, a manager and a groom.