HE'S put in more hours at St James' Park than Alan Shearer and is a great favourite with the fans, yet he's never kicked a ball.

Now the final whistle is blowing on the career of one of Northumbria Police's most experienced equine officers - police horse Paris, better known by his stable name of Chubby. The 24-year-old grey gelding has been with the force's mounted section since 1988.

In that time, he has policed more than 1,000 football matches at Newcastle and Sunderland, and others further afield, as well as carrying out general operational duties.

The time has now come for him to retire from the force, and he made his last appearance at Shearer's testimonial on Thursday night.

For the past ten years, Chubby has been the regular mount of Sergeant Dave Roythorne, head of the mounted section, at Kirkley Hall, Ponteland, and his retirement will leave a big void.

"He's always been at the forefront of parades and demonstrations and has never let me down," said Sgt Roythorne. "He's fearless in everything he does, yet he has a very affectionate nature."

Now the grass really will be greener for Chubby, as he has been offered a retirement home in Northumberland.