Wallace and Gromit-inspired name for new police horse coming to the area soon

RESIDENTS in the West Somerset area can soon start looking out for new police horse Wensleydale, whose name has been inspired by Wallace and Gromit creators Aardman Studios.

Nearly 4,000 people took part in a social media vote to choose a name for the police horse from a shortlist inspired by the multi-award winning Bristol animation studio.

Wensleydale, an eight-year-old Irish Draft, is one of Avon and Somerset Police’s newest horse recruits, joining the force in 2024.

He was previously known as Max and will be officially renamed at a ceremony in the next few weeks.

A police spokesperson said: “Our mounted teams are deployed all over Avon and Somerset, so will undoubtedly be in your patch in the near future.

“While modern policing continues to evolve through new technology and policing methods, the mounted section remains a highly effective operational resource.”

Chief Insp Gareth Pike, of the force’s operational support unit, said: “Like his namesake, Police Horse Wensleydale is steady under pressure.

“He is mature, well-balanced, full of character, and always stands out from the crowd.

“Mounted policing has been part of policing heritage for well over a century and remains a highly effective policing resource today.

“Whether supporting major events, engaging with communities, or helping officers respond to incidents, our horses provide a visible and reassuring presence that is valued by the public.

“Max is one of the newest members of our mounted section and has already demonstrated the qualities needed to become an excellent police horse.

“The most important characteristics are temperament and physical presence.

“Police horses work in busy environments, and they need to be brave and able to handle confrontational situations without becoming distressed.

“It is fantastic to see so many people get involved in choosing his new name.

“We traditionally name our horses after places or people who are important and significant to our policing area, and we are delighted that our newest recruit will have a name inspired by Bristol's iconic creative sector.

“Bringing together two organisations with strong Bristol connections has made this a particularly special moment for both Max and the city.”

Avon and Somerset Constabulary stable manager Sara Treble said: “Max has been a fantastic addition to the mounted section and has taken every aspect of his training in his stride.

“From policing football matches and protests to supporting ceremonial events, such as Remembrance Sunday, he has shown confidence, curiosity, and a willingness to learn.

“We are delighted to be working with Aardman to find him a name that is fitting for such a promising young horse, and we hope the public has enjoyed being part of his journey.”

Aardman Studios co-founder and creative director Peter Lord said: “At Aardman, we love creatures of all kinds, from the chatty animals in Creature Comforts, to Shaun the Sheep, and Gromit.

“So, we are delighted to be associated with another wonderful addition to Avon and Somerset Police’s stable of handsome horses.

“We greatly hope Max enjoys his new Aardman inspired name.”