A new equestrian group is on a mission to improve off road access for riders, with ambitions to secure more routes and horsebox parking, as well as raise the profile of hacking riders.
The group of horse owners formed East Sussex and Kent Access Group earlier this year and they have already had positive discussions with Forestry England and the British Horse Society (BHS).
Their efforts to provide a safer environment for riders have also been praised by actor and horseman Martin Clunes, president of the BHS.
Hazel Tonge, vice chair and secretary for the new group, tragically lost her beloved mare Prima in a road accident and hasn’t ridden on the roads since.
Her ordeal inspired her to take action to make sure riders and their horses have safe spaces to exercise.
“Forty years ago, a speeding driver took Prima from me and changed my life forever,” she told Your Horse.
“Today, we are still fighting the same battle — not only for my current horse, but for every rider who wants to enjoy the countryside safely.
“What began as a local response to the closure of horsebox parking quickly evolved into a growing community of riders determined to ensure that equestrian access is not forgotten.”
The group recently conducted a survey with more than 350 respondents.
“The results painted a worrying picture,” explained Hazel. “Many riders reported a steady decline in access to off road routes and suitable horsebox parking over recent years.
“Some felt forced back onto roads they no longer considered safe. Others had stopped hacking altogether because the risks were simply too great.
“Across England, riders face many of the same challenges: increasing traffic, fragmented bridleway networks, declining access to off road routes and a lack of suitable places to safely unload horses.”
Working together
The not-for-profit organisation has been working directly with landowners to secure and maintain access to woodland bridleways in the South East.
They have also had positive discussions with Forestry England, who told Your Horse they welcome riders and carriage drivers to the forests they manage.
“We work closely with representative groups such as East Sussex and Kent Access Group to explore ways to improve access for the equestrian community, where local opportunities and access allow,” a spokesman for Forestry England said.
“We have over 200 miles for horses only and 22 miles for carriage-driving and another 22 miles of toll-free drives. Some forests have horsebox parking where demand and affordability allow.”
BHS Access and Rights of Way Team Manager, Elizabeth Birtley said the charity welcomed any new affiliated Equestrian Access Groups that share its vision of improving off road access.
“Accessible off road routes are extremely important when it comes to improving equestrian safety,” she said.
“At BHS, we are committed to protecting and preserving the UK’s access network and it’s our priority to make sure routes are safe and accessible to horse riders and carriage drivers.”
The charity’s president, Martin Clunes, congratulated the East Sussex and Kent Access Group for its efforts so far.
“By campaigning for better routes, horsebox parking, and protected bridleways, this dedicated group is leading the way in creating a safer future for local hackers,” he said.
“Their efforts perfectly align with our mission at the BHS, and I applaud everyone involved for their commitment to keeping horse riders safe and off the roads.”
To find out more about the East Sussex and Kent Access Group visit their website or Facebook page.
Lead image of Hazel Tonge and her current horse, Mr Mylo
