For More Information, Call: Corinne Matthews 01823 680681

Blackdown Hills Rural Partnership

Halifax House, Hemyock

CULLOMPTON Devon EX15 3 QW For Immediate Release

Date: 20 October 2004

IMPROVING OPPORTUNITIES FOR BLACKDOWN HILLS HORSE RIDERS

The Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) should be a haven for horse riders but the reality is that the rights of way network is not all that it could be. Whilst there are pockets of good off tarmac riding opportunities in the Hills, most horse riders will tell you that they are still having to take to roads that are becoming busier and busier even those tiny country lanes that meander for miles.

At County level the Public Rights of Way Improvement Plans are trying to tackle many of the issues, but rely heavily on local knowledge and local help.

The British Horse Society recently commissioned research in the AONB to assess the level of equestrian venture in the Blackdown Hills and asked what could be done to add value to local horsy businesses whilst making the area more attractive for equestrian activity. The final report demonstrated a large and diverse range of equestrian ventures, with the very clear message coming from all that the bridleway network was not good enough and was a major stumbling block for increasing business opportunities.

With these thoughts in mind a recent meeting of Equestrian businesses brought together by the Blackdown Hills Rural Partnership agreed that a dedicated Blackdown Hills Bridleways Association could bring about improvements to the network.

Stephanie Wheeler – British Horse Society Somerset Bridleways Officer said “ A Bridleways Association affiliated to the BHS can be a very strong body to affect change. Local groups are well placed to build relationships, ease communication, lobby local authorities, facilitate voluntary works and apply for funding. The BHS in turn provide professional advice, training and insurance.” Stephanie continued by saying “I am delighted that Blackdown Hills equestrian businesses both see the need for a group and want to be involved, the area is stunning for horse riders and we need to be able to make it more accessible”

A meeting has been arranged for Thursday 25 November at Heazle Riding Centre, Clayhidon at 7.30pm. where it is hoped to formally set up the Association and start collecting information about the state of the areas bridleways. This meeting is open to everyone who has an interest in horse riding in the Blackdown Hills. Please telephone 01823 680681 for more information.

Ends

Editors note: The Blackdown Hills Rural Partnership brings together local community representatives, local authorities, national agencies and interested groups to promote the sustainable development of the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The Leader+ programme is a European Fund for assisting rural communities in improving economic prosperity and the general quality of life in the area by

• Enhancing the natural and cultural heritage of the Blackdown Hills.
• Reinforcing and strengthening the economic environment
• Encouraging greater community involvement with the local economy.