The mounted officers at the Peachcroft shopping parade Mounted police rode into Abingdon to spread a Christmas message -- hide the presents and lock up your homes.

Police horses Troy, ridden by Pc Lou Watson, and Iceni, ridden by Pc Dave James, trotted into the Peachcroft shopping parade as part of a high profile anti-crime campaign in the Vale of White Horse district.

Insp Christian Bunt said: "The idea of the campaign is to prevent, enforce and gather information on criminal activity and alert the public of the heightened risk of burglaries.

"Homes are at risk, particularly at this time of the year, and we need to get home the message to people that they should make their homes secure and keep presents out of sight.

"We thought the idea of mounted police would draw attention to our campaign. Our officers will talk to people and give advice on what to do to ensure that Christmas is not spoiled by burglars."

One of the first to come face to face with the equestrian patrol was Carole Poole, of Norbrook Close, and her sons William, 11, and Edward, four. Mrs Poole said: "It's always good to see a police presence in the area and there is an attraction when they are on horseback."