SANTA is set to give Bolton's police horses a special treat this Christmas -- stockings loaded with presents have been left hanging from their stable doors.

The four-legged crime fighters -- based in Bury and Leigh -- will be patrolling the streets and policing football matches throughout the festive season.

But staff and officers are ensuring they are not forgotten by Santa Claus. .

Chief Insp Jeremy Pidd, head of the mounted unit, said: "It is a

busy time for us all and we want to make sure that it is a merry Christmas in the stables.

"All the horses will receive a Christmas treat as recognition of their hard work during the past year.

Anne Firth, a senior groom, added: "It would be nice if people could

spare a thought for us and the horses this Christmas, particularly when they are driving cars."

Greater Manchester Police has around 40 horses based at four stables across the county.