AN EVENT is being held at Wilsden as part of a campaign to boost safety for horse riders using the roads.

A ride takes place on Sunday, September 17, in support of the Pass Wide and Slow initiative.

According to the British Horse Society, the number of incidents nationally involving horse riders and vehicles is increasing.

Last year, 3,552 incidents were reported.

Sixty-eight horses died and 125 were injured, and 139 people suffered injuries.

Just over a quarter of riders said they had been a victim of road rage or abuse.

The ride starts at Wilsden Equestrian Centre, at 11am.

It will make its way through the village.

Organiser, Joanna Bower, says: "I'm organising the ride to make the roads safer for my daughter and all horse riders.

"We're aiming to raise awareness amongst drivers about the importance of passing horses wide and slow."

There are several sponsors, and amongst those voicing support for the initiative is Bingley Rural councillor Paul Sullivan.

He says: "It's about educating drivers how to pass horses, and I'm pleased to give my support."

Advice to motorists when encountering a horse rider is to slow down to a maximum of 10mph, and leave a gap of at least two metres.