LANDOWNERS are being encouraged to host coffee mornings to ensure horse riders stay safe on the roads.

It follows a successful meeting organised by PCSO Melissa Camilleri to raise awareness of equine road safety and promote the use of high visibility gear.

PCSO John Bordiss, from the rural crime team, also went to the event at Suddene Park Farm to give advice to riders and landowners about making improvement to their security.

PCSO Camilleri said: “It is not a legal requirement for horse riders to have a road safety certificate, but I don’t think the importance of high visibility gear can be understated.

“Horse riders wear nice country wear but often the colours blend into the hedgerows. Even if riders put just one leg strap on, it can make a huge difference.

“People often say they can’t afford the specialised gear, but high visibility items can be bought online for as little as 50p.

“I am hoping to hold more of these events around the Marlborough and Pewsey area and would like to hear from anyone who has the facilities to hold one.”

The Rural Crime Team, which started in April 2009, also co-ordinate Horsewatch and Farmwatch schemes county wide and membership is now close to 2000.

If you are interested in holding a coffee morning, call PCSO Camilleri on 101.