HUNDREDS of horse saddles will be micro-chipped in bid to put a stop to expensive equine crime in the Ribble Valley.

It comes after equestrian equipment which can cost thousands of pounds, was targeted by thieves.

Micro-chipping the saddles is the brainchild of Lancashire Constabulary Police Community Support Officer’s (PCSO) Jane Pearson and Dinah Bioletti.

PCSO Pearson, who is from Old Langho, said she was keen to put a stop to thefts of the expensive equipment after a number of saddles were snatched from riding stables.

The 27-year-old, who has owned a horse since the age of seven, said: “This equipment can cost an absolute fortune with a standard saddle costing upwards of £500.

“A couple of years ago there was a spate of tack and equipment thefts in the Ribble Valley and we decided that action needed to be taken to try and secure it somehow.”

The duo decided to attach micro-chips to horses saddles in a bid to deter thieves.

Officers who recover stolen goods can scan the saddles and use the chips to trace the original owners.

Now, more than 50 livery yards across the Ribble Valley have had their horse saddles chipped.

The program is set to be rolled out to the rest of the area with officers contacting private yard owners who keep horses.

PCSO Pearson added: “I have got a horse so I am keen to help others who have horses.

“The standard price to kit up a horse can be upwards of £1500.

”It is devastating when you’re saddle gets pinched because horses are usually measured up for individual saddles which is very pricey.”

The scheme was launched as part of Horse Watch, the equine version of Neighbourhood Watch which offers crime prevention information and advice to horse owners.

To have your equipment micro-chipped contact PCSO Pearson on 01200 458722.