A police horse named after an American general is to be given a new home with the US army.

West Yorkshire Police named the horse Norman after General "Stormin'" Norman Schwarzkopf, leader of the coalition forces during the Gulf war.

He is to be flown to Michigan at the request of Blue Devils horse platoon of the United States Army Reserve.

The horse became a favourite with the Blue Devils' platoon commander, Chief Richard Dyk, when he carried him in the Queen's Jubilee horse show at Windsor in May.

Bradford riots

Norman is West Yorkshire's longest-serving police horse.

He joined the force in May 1991 when he was five years old.

During his 11 years of active service Norman has performed many policing operations including at the Bradford riots.

But because of arthritis he can no longer perform the full range of duties.

Takes off

In America, his main role will be as the riderless horse at remembrance and funeral ceremonies.

Once he is in Michigan, Norman will be visited by his namesake.

General Schwarzkopf has been informed of his transfer and is finalising plans to visit him.

And as he takes off for pastures new, Norman will be fondly remembered by the police in West Yorkshire.

Mounted section

Inspector Trevor Thackray, the head of the mounted section, says: "Norman has been the backbone of the mounted section.

"He has proved to be an exceptional police horse and will be greatly missed."

Norman starts his journey to Michigan on Sunday.