The lighter side of serious mission

Lancashire Police horse Kelbrook gives a smile while waiting to set out on patrol in Blackpool

Lancashire police horse Kelbrook certainly seems happy to be beside the seaside, even if it is for a serious reason.

The horse was one of two deployed in Blackpool as part of an operation dealing with begging, alcohol and drug abuse.

But that didn’t stop the constabulary’s trusted steed pausing to attempt an impression of our famous beach donkeys.

After this shot was taken on central car park, with the Tower providing a perfect backdrop, Kelbrook and Finnigan took to the streets of the resort to provide support for a team made up of officials from Blackpool Police, Blackpool Council, Housing Options, Blackpool BID and the Horizon drug and alcohol service.

As a result of the patrols a number of people have taken up the offer of help and support.

Several more have been issued with warnings, orders or summons to court.

The team behind the week-long operation will meet on Monday to discuss how to build on their positive results.

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