Horses and riders in County Durham took part in a national "rideout" as part of the Pass Wide and Slow campaign designed to raise awareness of the risk motorists pose to horse-riders - especially in light of recent changes to the Highway Code.
A large group set off from the Old Hat and Feather Pub in Medomsley on a six mile route. Julie Dixon, who attended the event, spoke of the importance of educating the public about how best to approach and pass horses on the roads.
This year, the Highway Code changed to include clear guidance on how to treat this scenario. The new rules are that cars or motorcycles should be "passing people riding horses or driving horse-drawn vehicles at speeds under 10 mph and allowing at least 2 metres (6.5 feet) of space".
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The rules add: "Wait behind them and do not overtake if it’s unsafe or not possible to meet these clearances."
Organiser Julie added that the ride in County Durham was one of around 150 taking place on Sunday across the UK to try and help keep riders safe. She said many motorists did not obey the new Highway Code.
"The numbers of deaths are actually rising on a daily basis and it's horrifying," Julie said. "It could be your daughter, your mam or your auntie. Anybody out there riding. We need to make sure riders are safe. Horses were here a long time before cars and we need to make sure riders are safe on the roads.
"So please if you see us can you slow down and try to pass us at 10mph and give us two metres distance. We will try to stay out of your way."
She said a reduction in the number of off-road routes had meant more horses and riders were in danger than had previously been the case. Julie added: "We don't want to be on the roads but unfortunately lots of our off-road riding facilities are no longer here any more. So we have to ride on the roads to get to somewhere safe. So please bear with us, be patient. We will smile and wave at you and just keep us safe o the roads."
The Pass Wide and Slow campaign works nationally to reduce the danger to horses and their riders - this year's awareness rides were supported by police including the Stanley and Consett neighbourhood policing team within Durham Constabulary.
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