But officers had to answer the call from a member of the public to the White Horse on Cheriton Hill after the festive makeover left residents amused on Sunday.
An anonymous comedic artist has added a red nose to the chalk figure’s muzzle, which overlooks Folkestone and the M20.
However, there were concerns it was about to be removed by “Constable Scrooge and PC Grinch” after photos emerged of officers inspecting the addition.
Thankfully, the nose – revealed to be a tarpaulin – has been allowed to stay.
Police say they were called to the White Horse after concerns over what was thought to be a downed skydiver.
A spokeswoman for the force said: “We attended Cheriton Hill in Folkestone after receiving a report relating to concerns over what was perceived to be a parachute.
“Officers had been called at 12.25pm on Sunday, December 15.
“It was quickly established the item was a tarpaulin and no incident had taken place.”
Locals took to social media to share their excitement at the Christmas makeover.
Tracie Terrace said: “This is brilliant. It did make me chuckle on the way to work this morning.”
The Folkestone White Horse was completed in the summer of 2003 despite opposition from environmentalists.
Originally, it was hoped the figure would mark the millennium, but the plans proved divisive and were delayed by a public inquiry.
Although the landmark was given planning permission by Folkestone and Hythe District Council – then Shepway District Council – which also uses the horse as its logo, an inquiry was held as the government advisory body English Nature – now Natural England – objected.
Eventually, it was given the go-ahead by the government but was made from chalk blocks, rather than being cut into the hillside.
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