The Bow Street Horse Patrols were a set of anti-highwaymen mounted police organised in London, England.
Their creation was made possible with a government grant of £600 for a civilian "night horse patrol" to protect travellers from highwaymen.
[1] However, never regarded as a permanent force the government grant was withdrawn the following year and the patrol disbanded, only two mounted 'pursers' were retained at Bow Street Magistrates Court.
[2] In 1805 the mounted horse patrol was reintroduced by Bow Street's chief magistrate (1800 - 1806) and home secretary Sir Richard Ford.
[6] From 1805, the horse patrols introduced a uniform of a distinctive scarlet waistcoat under their blue greatcoats, they were nicknamed "Robin Redbreasts".