A NEW scheme to crackdown on equine crime across North Somerset has been launched. The scheme, called Horse Watch, is being

A NEW scheme to crackdown on equine crime across North Somerset has been launched.The scheme, called Horse Watch, is being launched by police following a recent rise in equine crime across the district.It is being targeted at local stables, livery farms and horse owners and will advise on issues including security and the importance of marking horses, ponies and all associated tack, trailers and boxes.It will also offer help and support to victims of equine crime and uses a highly effective network of co-ordinators to pass details of all North Somerset equine crime to its members.Police Community Support Officer Vicky Skeath said: "We have already held tack marking sessions which proved to be very successful, marking £15,000 worth of tack on the first session alone."We urge people to register their horses and equipment to avoid becoming a victim of equine crime."The scheme is currently looking for sponsors and donations."For more information on Horse Watch and how to join contact Vicky Skeath, PSCO for Portishead or Eleanor French, PSCO for Clevedon on 0845 4567000.Pictured at the launch of Horse Watch launches at the Hand Equestrian Centre, Clevedon, are PCSOs Charlotte Slocombe, Ellie French, Emma Wright, Kylie Stevens, Vicky Skeath and Lyn Groves with equestrian centre manager Nick Davies and showjumper Louise Hacker with her horse Enrico.