Over 60 members attended the annual meeting held at The Nicholls Hall Lydford on 10th June 2009. Guest Speaker, Steve Gardner, (Rights of way improvements officer from Devon County Council), by clever means of a quiz was able to give a detailed insight in to the work of his department. President Christine Ingram, outlined to the large gathering of members the progress that was being made towards safely maximising the use of available routes including cycleway, for all users and increasing the number of bridleways in Devon.

She was particularly pleased to note the outstanding success of the new bridleway at Thorndon Cross which at the last count had been used by over 400 walkers and cyclists and 84 horses, since opening at the end of April. She was particularly glad that this was going ahead in a spirit of co-operation and understanding of all of those affected and that it was being used and enjoyed by all members of the community from horse riders to users with pushchairs.

South West Riders’ main concerns have always been the dangers for all concerned of horse riding; cycling and walking along busy A roads. Statistically, there is no doubt that roads such as the A3079 and the A386 are the most dangerous for all road users, not only horse riders.

They are constantly searching for ways of crossing these dangerous obstacles as safely as possible for horse riders, cyclists and pedestrians and have made a number of detailed proposals to Devon County Council which as they are implemented have resulted in much greater and safer access to both existing bridleways and Dartmoor National Park. South West Riders always work closely with Devon County Council to ensure there is minimal disruption to landowners and costs are kept to as low as possible. There is still a huge amount to do.

The evening finished as always with a convivial and hearty supper.

Notes for Editors:-

South West Riders is an organisation affiliated to The British Horse Society who has worked tirelessly over many years to try and improve access to safe riding for all by the creation of new bridleways, ensuring that existing bridleways are properly maintained and that crossings of public highways are made as safe as possible.

South West Riders recognises the needs of walkers and cyclists for these same objectives and works closely with them to achieve these aims.