Notts Police will offer horse riders the chance to wear headcams as part of an initiative to crack down on crime.
Horse Watch launched on Wednesday (August 2) with the volunteer scheme similar to Neighbourhood Watch.
Members share information about any suspicious activity or issues that concern them as well as alerting the police and partners to issues such as fly tipping, fly grazing and illegal off-road biking.
Notts Police are also offering horse riders headcams to record video if they see something suspicious when out and about on horseback.
Inspector for the Newark and Sherwood area Louise Clarke has led the project and said: “Horse Watch members will not intervene in any incidents nor be asked to address any particular policing problem.
“In fact, they will not be doing anything beyond their normal riding behaviour and activities – they will report to the police if they see something that they feel is suspicious.
“The scheme will keep its members informed about rural and equine crime that has taken place, helping other members to protect themselves against similar offences.
“Similar schemes have been very successful and we aim to emulate that success.”
Police and Crime Commissioner for Nottinghamshire Paddy Tipping is hoping the scheme will crack down on rural and quine-related crime.
Mr Tipping said: “The members of Horse Watch will provide some ‘eyes and ears’ information, not purely in relation to their horses, ponies and equipment but rural crime in general – this will then help us use our rural officers wisely and to best effect.
“I’m really grateful to everyone who has signed up to this scheme in Nottinghamshire and hope that many more will join them.
“I’m determined that we do everything we can to tackle crime in rural villages and the more remote areas of the countryside.”
