LOBBYING by the British Horse Society has helped to persuade the government to include riding on the road as part of a new safety campaign.

A new television advertisement for the Think! campaign was launched at Badminton on Friday, May 3, which the BHS says should delight horse riders, as it recognises them to be vulnerable road users.

"If motorists were more aware of the dangers, there would be far fewer accidents," said BHS head of safety Sheila Hardy.

She added: "Many accidents could be avoided if drivers understood why it is important to pass riders wide and slow."

BHS figures show that seven riders were killed on Britain's roads last year and many more horses and drivers injured.

It is advising riders to wear high-visibility clothing, read the Highway Code and make sure they have third party insurance.