HIGH-visibility clothing is being given away by the Ministry of Defence and the British Horse Society so military helicopter pilots can see horse riders more easily.

Often, pilots of low-flying helicopters do not see riders until the last minute, and the aircraft can seriously disturb horses, especially if they are not accustomed to the noise.

A Ministry Of Defence trial last year found that high-visibility clothing was the largest single factor in improving rider safety.

Graham Cory, chief executive of the British Horse Society, said the key message was that a horse and rider who can be seen in good time can be avoided in good time.

Tom Watson, the Under Secretary of State for Defence, said low flying was an essential part of training for helicopter crews providing vital support in the rebuilding of Iraq and Afghanistan.

"They provide a search and rescue capability in the UK and have helped in humanitarian aid missions, including the Pakistan earthquake," he said.

He handed more than 400 high visibility rider tabards and horse exercise sheets to Mr Cory at RAF Benson this week.

Riders can apply by e-mailing modviz@bhs.org.uk or writing to MODVIZ, Safety Department, Stoneleigh, Deer Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire, CV8 2XZ.