Primary school children are being asked to help name Avon and Somerset Police's latest equine recruit.

Standing at a whopping 17.1hh, the four-legged crime fighter's stable name of 'Tiny' is no longer suitable and the mounted section is looking for a name which has a link to the force area.

The team, based at Bower Ashton, already includes Redland, Clifton, Broadmead and Somerset.

Children from across the force area have been asked to think of an appropriate new name and the winning child will take part in an official naming ceremony at the centre's open day in June.

PC Jon Green, who is Tiny's rider, said: "Tiny has the biggest feet I have ever seen so his name is really not fitting! He is coming along very well and I am looking forward to developing a good working partnership. All of the horses have wonderful temperaments which is vital for the work they do."

The duties of a police horse are varied and widespread and they frequently support all the districts and departments in prioritised crime and public order initiatives.

They also regularly patrol the streets providing a highly visible presence.

Mounted officers are also involved in the policing of high profile events such as Glastonbury Festival, Badminton Horse Trials, Bristol Balloon Fiesta and football matches.

To enter the competition, visit the Avon and Somerset website on http://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/