BHS Access Week to highlight efforts in the battle for equestrian access
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
The British Horse Society Access Week 2008 will take place from 16-26 May, highlighting the work of BHS staff and volunteers, and raising awareness and money for Access campaigns.
The week is an annual event to raise awareness of access issues and the work being done by BHS staff, volunteers and Affiliated Bridleways Groups on behalf of riders across the UK.
Currently horse riders have access to only 22% of the public rights of way network and carriage drivers only 5%. The creation and preservation of the equestrian public rights of way network not only creates and preserves the network for equestrians but for cyclists and walkers as well.
The main event of the week will be the launch of Bedfordshire and the Chiltern Hills On Horseback. This publication details 13 trails around the area, as well as places to stay with your horse and other key local information. The launch will take place on Monday 19 May at the College Equestrian Centre, Keysoe.
The BHS is also encouraging riders to host a ‘Ride for Access’ to raise money for the Access Fighting Fund. While Access Week is the focus for Ride for Access rides, they can be held at any time of the year. Emma Jones arranged a nine-mile ride in Ceredigion on 4 May, raising more that £100.
During Access Week, the BHS presents awards to nominated individuals or organisations that have made a significant contribution to any aspect of Rights of Way work. Access Awards are to be presented this year to recognise achievement in opening new routes, dedicated service to equestrian access and cooperation between user groups.
Mark Weston, BHS Director of Access Safety and Welfare, said: “Access Week is a time to raise awareness of the work of our staff and volunteers. This is particularly important in the current climate, where equestrian access is increasingly neglected in current legislation and campaigning is fast becoming an important issue.”
