Greater Manchester Police force recruits its biggest horse

Greater Manchester Police has recruited the biggest horse in the force’s 50-year history.

Named Trooper after a character in a Charles Dickens novel, the 10-year-old shire horse measures at 18.2 hands from the ground to shoulders.

Trooper has been described as a "gentle giant", and the force said the horse would also take part in community events such as school visits.

"Everything size-wise even the bridle, rugs, stable has all got to be enlarged, just to accommodate his comfort," trainer, Alistair Hunstone said.

Video reporting by Molly Brewer, BBC News.

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