Macclesfield Express

Horse rider slams danger drivers

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A HORSE rider has slammed dangerous drivers after being ‘spat at’ and ‘abused’ while out on hacks.

Victoria Ferri, a member of Facebook group ‘Pass Wide and Slow,’ is urging people to be aware of horses and their riders, who she says often take their lives into their hands.

According to the Disley campaigner, riders are being subjected to ‘verbal abuse’ and have reportedly been spat at, shouted at and even hit by vehicles passing aggressive­ly close.

She said: “We are constantly abused. I have been hit twice in my village by vehicles, as has my

horse. I have been spat at, shouted at, pass far too close by vehicles and large lorries. I have also had people beep their horns and just show a complete lack of tolerance or kindness from drivers.

“People don’t realise how dangerous they are being and a small minority don’t even seem to care.

“It’s very stressful for us and our horses. For the sake of a little bit of patience and understand­ing they are prepared to put ours and our horses’ lives at risk.”

The Pass Wide and Slow campaign group plans to stage a nationwide event on September 18, which will see riders take to roads across the country to raise awareness of the issues.

Victoria added: “It’s vital for our safety that we spread our message as far as possible into the none equestrian community.

“’We have as much right to be on the roads as anybody else.”

According to the equestrian campaigner, many cases of abuse result in no prosecutio­n, which serves to only exacerbate the issue.

The Highway Code states that drivers should be ‘particular­ly careful’ of horses, which are described as flight animals. Motorists are advised to pass wide and slowly at a maximum of 10mph and allowing at least two metres of space.

 ?? ?? l●Victoria
Ferri
l●Victoria Ferri

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