OFFICERS from South Devon took the trip to Sidmouth to learn all about proper handling of donkeys.

Several officers the Devon & Cornwall Police Rural Affairs Team, including PC Lucy Wyatt and PC Clarke Orchard, who is Neighbourhood Beat Manager covering Bishopsteignton, recently spent time at the town’s Donkey Sanctuary.

The trip was a part of a national push to highlight equine issues.

Operation Gallop sees police forces across the UK work with partners to tackle all aspects of equine crime and welfare.

The operation aims to improve collaboration between police forces and partners and increase awareness of equine road safety and the importance of passing horses safely, as well as reduce equine related crime - including theft of horses, horse boxes and tack.

The 2023 NFU Mutual rural crime report found the cost of rural crime rose by 22 percent in 2022.

It also highlighted that ‘soaring second-hand markets and demand’ had led to a 66 percent increase in trailer thefts in 2022, totalling £2.9m.

Rural Affairs Officer at Devon & Cornwall Police, PC Lucy Wyatt, who is based in South Devon, said: ‘We visited the Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth earlier this year to give them some crime prevention advice around property marking and they kindly offered to carry out a training session for officers in return.

‘As a Rural Affairs team, we need to be aware of many different issues affecting our rural communities and, as Devon and Cornwall are largely rural areas, we know that many people enjoy horse riding or keep donkeys.

‘As a force, we have a responsibility to protect animals from neglect or cruelty and the training offered by The Donkey Sanctuary has been invaluable in educating the team about how to spot potential welfare issues.

‘Many people don’t realise that donkeys behave very differently to horses.

‘They are more stoic, prone to foot problems and obesity, and respond differently to stress and handling.

‘Training helps to ensure that officers don’t make incorrect assumptions based on horse behaviour.

‘We are always looking to improve our knowledge and are grateful for the time the sanctuary staff have spent with us today.’

Devon & Cornwall Police is encouraging the equestrian community to consider property marking where possible so that any stolen items can be traced and returned to their rightful owners.

Motorists and horse riders are also reminded of the importance of sharing the roads responsibly.

Road users are also reminded to be mindful that the horse and rider may not hear them approaching and are encouraged to carefully make their presence known on approach to avoid startling the horse.

In 2023, the British Horse Society received reports of 3,383 road incidents involving horses, resulting in 66 horse deaths and 86 horse injuries.

Head of Welfare for The Donkey Sanctuary, Hannah Bryer, added: ‘Welcoming the Devon & Cornwall Rural Policing Team to The Donkey Sanctuary this week is a valuable opportunity for officers to learn about the needs and behaviour of donkeys and mules.

‘This knowledge will help them in the field and give them a greater understanding of the support available through our welfare team.

‘Partnerships like this play a crucial role in helping us reach more donkeys and their owners.

‘By working together, we can strengthen our impact within communities and continue our mission to improve the lives of donkeys every day.’