Similar to Neighbourhood Watch, Horse Watch is run by, and for, members of the equestrian community and is fully supported by the Police. Along the same lines as Farm Watch, these schemes can be run for a group or by a lone individual. Either way, the benefits are the same.

Members are able to share information about criminal, anti-social and suspicious behaviour in their area, have access to the Devon and Cornwall Alert messaging service, can obtain information about security products and property marking kits as well as attend and take part in rural crime initiatives.

Horse Watch is also championed by the Devon and Cornwall Police's Rural Crime Team.

You can contact them via 101.

You can also register your property for free at www.immobilise.com and search for details of stolen property prior to buying any new equipment.

Here in Devon and Cornwall

Devon and Cornwall both have their own Rural Crime Team and Horse Watch is co-ordinated by a dedicated team of PCSOs based in both counties. These officers are focused on working with horse owners and equine businesses to increase the prevention and detection of equine related crime and encourage greater community engagement between individual members, the police and other equine related groups.

Benefits of joining

• You will receive stickers and signs to display on your property.
• You will have access to Devon and Cornwall Alert (early information regarding crimes or suspicious behaviour) as well as to your local policing and Horse watch team.
• You will receive advice on how to report suspicious activity.
• You will be able to access information about security products that reduce theft and increase the chance of offenders being caught.
• You will be able to register your property and search for details of stolen property prior to buying new equipment.
• Have the opportunity to have your tack marked properly.

How to join

It’s free to join Horse Watch. All you need to do is:

1. Register your details with Devon and Cornwall Alert
2. Contact your local Rural Policing Team or DaCCWA via the Contact Us page.