A police horse has died in the line of duty following a horrific accident outside a football stadium.
Lancashire Constabulary announced yesterday (22 April) that Morecambe suffered a serious injury outside Blackpool Football Club’s Bloomfield Road stadium.
“Morecambe came into contact with a metal pole on Seasiders Way at around 5:20pm today following the Blackpool vs Fleetwood football fixture,” a police statement said.
“As a result he suffered a serious injury to his stomach and despite receiving urgent medical attention from a vet, was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.”
Morecambe’s rider was taken by air ambulance to the Royal Preston Hospital with “some injuries”. It is believed he fell into the side of a horsebox after Morecambe was injured, the police said, adding that there were no suspicious circumstances, and “this was a tragic accident”.
Continues below…
‘One of the bravest of them all’: Police horse retires to join old friends
‘Caton has worked hard for the people of Lancashire and we hope he can enjoy his retirement at our home
Former police horse triumphs in vaulting competition
A police horse who was rehabilitated by the ILPH won a bronze medal for Britain at vaulting championships
Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round
“We are all completely devastated by the loss of Morecambe in such tragic circumstances,” said Chief Inspector Sue Bushell of Lancashire Constabulary’s mounted branch.
“The horses are a big part of our police family and Morecambe will be sorely missed by his riders and many colleagues from across the force.
“Our thoughts remain with our injured colleague at this extremely difficult time.”
For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.
