Mounted police in seaside resort

Dorset police say horseback patrols have been successful in Bristol

Mounted police are to patrol the streets of Bournemouth for the first time on Friday night in an attempt to cut alcohol-fuelled crime.

Dorset police are borrowing four horses from the Avon and Somerset force for a trial period of three weekends.

Police say they hope the presence will cut anti-social behaviour, pointing to successful horse patrols in Bristol.

In the past, horses have only been used to police the resort town during large public events like party conferences.

'Imposing presence'

Inspector Neil MacBean said: "We hope that police horses will help us to diffuse the heat in situations that are about to develop in the town centre.

"Horses generally have quite an imposing presence, which should help to calm the town and deter people from causing trouble.

"I am sure most people out on a Friday and Saturday night will be surprised to see police horses, they will certainly be a talking point.

But, whilst they will be very useful to deter trouble-makers, they are in fact very friendly, so people out just to enjoy themselves have nothing to worry about."

Friday's patrol begins at 2100 GMT.