A POLICE chief from Bolton has taken over the reins as head of Greater Manchester Police's mounted unit -- the largest horseback division in the country.

Chief Insp Lynn Roby, aged 41, is the first woman ever to take charge of the unit where she worked as a constable and as a sergeant more than 15 years ago.

She said: "This is a fantastic job. Horses play a vital role in modern day policing and I want to ensure we continue to lead the way."

Chief Insp Roby has been an officer for 22 years, working in Bolton for five years before moving to south Manchester.

Her most recent duties have been as an Inspector at Longsight and an Assistant Investigator in the Discipline and Complaints Department in Manchester.

Chief Insp Roby will now be responsible for Greater Manchester Police's 40 horses, stabled at the Hough End barracks in Chorlton, Manchester.

Four stables, including sites in Leigh and Bury, provide 24-hour cover across Greater Manchester.

Police horses are used in day-to-day operations, as well as assisting with searches for missing people, the policing of major sporting events and tackling public disorder.

They provided high-profile policing around mosques in Bolton following the events of September 11 and have patrolled streets in the area as part of burglary crackdowns.

The horses are also providing a major role in Operation Hawk -- Greater Manchester Police's bid to stamp out street crime.

They are working alongside officers on the beat to target hotspot areas day and night.

Chief Insp Roby added: "Our mounted officers provide high-visibility policing that helps to reassure residents that we are committed to fighting crime and protecting people.

"I enjoyed my time working as a mounted officer and I am sure it will be valuable experience to call on."