Each horse is different. They all have different personalities, different strengths and weaknesses and different past experiences. If in doubt, wait for guidance from the rider. They know their horse best and can feel how their horse is reacting. The horse rider may ask trail riders to stop, switch off their engines and either give their horse a few moments or allow them to move out of the way. Removing helmets and chatting can help a panicking horse to realise it’s not a monster, it’s a person on a bike.

Horses like people… especially friendly people who have a packet of mints! I think everyone’s biggest fear is that other people may not care if they get injured.

TRF:

The Highway Code defines us as ‘Vulnerable Road Users’. What do you think ought to be done to reduce our respective casualty statistics and what successes have HRSA had so far?

Wendy:

Accidents involving Vulnerable Road Users aren’t taken as seriously as they should be, and in the case of horses, are often not dealt with at all. When victims have done nothing wrong, they need to know that authorities are there to help them, not claim that there is nothing they can do. As it stands at the moment, a damaged car is more important than killing someone’s horse, and that needs to change. We are seeing an improvement in some areas, but there is still a long way to go.

By far our biggest success is encouraging others to raise awareness and work together. We have added thousands of voices to the campaign for safety and we are very proud of that.

TRF:

Within both equine and motorcycle groups there are a small number of riders who either don't acknowledge (or are unwilling to reciprocate) the necessary respect to one other that would make our enjoyment of the trails safer and more enjoyable. What would you say to them?

Wendy:

Unfortunately, lack of respect for other riders puts people’s lives at risk, leads to groups being banned from shared spaces and creates division and animosity. Nothing is gained by this attitude and it spoils everything for people who can and do look after each other. Looking after others isn’t really that difficult.

TRF:

The green road network is a crucial means of recreation for both horse riders and motorcyclists. How would you like to see both user groups working together in the future?

Wendy:

More knowledge about the green road network and clearly marked routes showing who has the right to use them. All users should be fully aware of who else they might meet on them. Some horses are terrified of bikes and the rider can only avoid areas open to bikes if they know which routes are classified as green lanes so they can choose alternative routes.