Crime fighting horse retires

10:16am Friday 29th August 2008

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A TRUSTY crime fighting horse who won an award for bravery has been put out to pasture after years of police service.

Iceni, also known as Burnham, can now settle back and enjoy his retirement at The Home of Rest for Horses, at Speen, near Princes Risborough.

Iceni, who is 18-years-old and 17.2 hands (5'10") tall, began his training in Milton Keynes in 2003 before becoming the loyal steed of Seargent John Thurston.

In 2004 Iceni was commended for helping the police to stop a riot following a football match in Portsmouth.

Iceni, along with other Thames Valley Police horses, had to deal with more than 300 people who looted shops and attacked cars following the home match with Southampton.

Sgt Thurston said: "He is a brave, kind horse, who has given many years of good service to the Force. He has been a fantastic horse to ride and I will miss him.

"I am very grateful for the Home of Rest for Horses for agreeing to take Iceni, and it is good that he will be able to remain in the Thames Valley."

During his time on the force Iceni has helped to police football matches, demonstrations, rock concerts, missing person searches, school and state visits and royal weddings.