WEST Yorkshire Police mounted section has announced the unexpected death of one of its horses.

Police horse Connor, age 19, joined the force on October 7, 2003, and had served for 14 years.

He was one of the longest serving horses in the mounted section and took part in the policing of countless football matches, patrols, demonstrations and ceremonial events across the Force during his service.

Connor was admitted to an equine clinic in North Yorkshire on Monday, October 16 after becoming unwell. Exploratory tests revealed an untreatable tumour in his abdomen.

He died at midnight on Wednesday.

Inspector Julie Fitzpatrick said: “Connor was a handsome, hardworking and consistently brave horse who was popular with the team at Carr Gate and the public alike.

“He policed many significant events across the Force during his long service. Standing at almost 18 hands his size was matched by his huge personality both on and off the yard.

“His unexpected death has come as a massive shock to the team and he will be sadly missed.”