AN under-threat "toll" route for horses has been saved after riders coughed up vital cash.

Five more horse-lovers have began paying to access the land, in Hartlebury, after the Shuttle/Times and News reported how it could be closed by its out-of-pocket owner.

And even more are interested in signing up to use the route following a charity ride across the five-mile route.

The landowner has now decided to give the organisation which set up the route a stay of execution in light of the new-found interest.

Sally-Ann Larden from the Toll Ride Off-road Trust said: "We held a ride on Sunday and it was very, very successful. We now have about 15 people who want to join."

To use the route costs £120 a year but riders are still ignoring TROT's plea, she said.

"The first 12 months is the crux of it but there are still half a dozen riders or so who do not pay," she said.

The route provides direct access to Hartlebury Common and asks those who have paid the toll - which is cut to £60 for riders who drive their horses in from more than three miles away - to wear distinctive hatbands.

Sunday's ride - which attracted 30 equestrians - raised £250 for Worcestershire Bridleways and Riders Association.

For more information about TROT call Sally-Ann Larden on 01299 250150 or on 07734 430086.