GREATER Manchester Police is recruiting ­— and is looking to horse lovers in Bolton to help find the right recruit!

For the police is on the hunt for trusted steeds to help patrol the region's streets.

According to the police's equine manager Mima Manning, the right horse will have a "laidback and sensible temperament and approach to life".

She said: "The horses are an important part of policing and are seen on patrol around the county as well as at high profile events and football matches.

"We have some specific requirements of the new recruits and they will receive five star care and attention as well as specialist training and development for the role."

The horse recruits need to be between 16.2hh and 17.2hh, aged six to 13 years and be of substantial build.

They should currently be in work, fit and sound, be able to hack on the roads alone and in company, and jump a small course of fences. They must also be good to shoe and load, and enjoy plenty of attention.

People who have a horse that meets the criteria and may be able to loan or consider selling to Greater Manchester Police should contact the Mounted Unit at GMP.MountedUnit@gmp.police.uk, providing contact details and information about the horse including some photographs.

Horses will be required to come to the unit for a four to six week trial period before they would be accepted to be part of the GMP team and become a regular sight across the region.