A routine patrol in Blackburn town centre took an unexpected turn last week when a man wanted on recall to prison attempted to flee — only to be pursued and arrested by Lancashire Police’s Mounted Unit.
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The incident happened on Northgate, Blackburn, on 16 January 2026, when officers spotted Ben Cottam, 41, who is of no fixed address and was wanted on recall to prison.
When challenged by police, Cottam attempted to run from officers along the high street. What followed was a dramatic scene more commonly associated with period dramas than modern policing, as a mounted officer pursued him along the pavement.
Police Horse Rufford, ridden by PC Loder, quickly closed the distance, ending the attempted escape within moments. Realising he could not outrun horse and rider, the man stopped and was arrested without further incident.
Cottam was taken into custody and later remanded to HMP Preston.
Policing on horseback still plays a key role
Lancashire Police say the incident highlights the continued role of mounted officers in modern policing, particularly in busy town centres where visibility, mobility and crowd control are essential.
Mounted patrols are regularly used across Lancashire for reassurance patrols, public events and high-visibility operations — but, as this incident shows, they are also highly effective when swift action is required.
The arrest has been shared by Lancashire Police as an example of how different policing units work together to locate and detain wanted individuals.
