In a remarkable scene that left pedestrians stunned, a wanted man was dramatically chased down a bustling high street by a police horse in Blackburn. The unusual pursuit unfolded after officers on patrol recognised a familiar face who was wanted on recall to prison.
Dramatic Footage Captures High-Speed Pursuit
Bodycam footage reveals the tense moment when Ben Cottam, a 41-year-old man of no fixed address, decided to sprint away after being asked to stop by police. As he dashed through the streets, the thunderous sound of hooves echoed behind him, with a police horse named PH Rufford closing in rapidly.
The desperate officer can be heard shouting "Ben, stop!" as the horse weaved past surprised onlookers, creating a spectacle that disrupted the normal flow of the busy high street. Witnesses reported being thrown off guard by the unexpected sight of a mounted police chase unfolding before their eyes.
Suspect Quickly Realises the Futility of Escape
According to Lancashire Police, Cottam quickly realised he "didn't stand a chance against horse and rider" in this unusual confrontation. The chase concluded moments later when the suspect surrendered, accepting that outrunning the determined police horse was an impossible task.
Officers confirmed that following his arrest, Cottam was remanded to HMP Preston after a brief period in custody. Meanwhile, the police horse received well-deserved recognition for its role in the successful operation.
Police Statement Details the Unusual Incident
The force provided a detailed account of the January 16 incident, explaining that PC Loder and PH Rufford were conducting routine patrols on Northgate in Blackburn when they spotted Cottam, who was wanted on recall to prison.
"PC Loder asked him to stop, but instead he thought he could easily out-run PH Rufford," the police statement revealed. "Unfortunately for him, PH Rufford was far too hot to trot and instead cantered after him down the high street."
The statement concluded with a lighthearted note about the police horse's reward: "PH Rufford was tucked up in his stable with a carrot or two for a job well done!"
This unusual police chase highlights the continued effectiveness of mounted police units in urban environments, even in situations where suspects attempt to flee on foot through crowded public spaces. The incident serves as a reminder that traditional police methods can still prove highly effective in modern law enforcement scenarios.
