Liberal Democrat MP Lee Dillon has launched a new parliamentary campaign to improve road safety for horses and riders.
His early day motion (EDM), backed by cross-party MPs, calls on the Government to work with the equine sector and local authorities to raise awareness of safe driving practices and recent Highway Code changes.
The new campaign to keep horses and riders safe on the road is just the start, its creator has promised, as he aims to keep the issue “firmly on the national agenda”, calling for acknowledgement of horses’ role in society, concern over the number of road incidents involving them and greater awareness of changes to The Highway Code stating “Ultimately, this is about making our roads safer for everyone – drivers, riders and horses.”
The campaign follows Dillon’s participation in a British Horse Society (BHS) and Project EDWARD awareness ride from Lambourn to Windsor, inspired in part by the tragic road death of young racehorse Knockalla.
“Horses are central to rural life and the economy,” Dillon said. “Their safety—and that of riders—must be a priority. This campaign is just the beginning.”
Windsor MP Jack Rankin also voiced support, praising local efforts to raise awareness and committing to continued work with the BHS.
BHS safety director Alan Hiscox welcomed the motion, noting that road incidents involving horses remain common and public awareness of how to pass them safely is still lacking.
Project EDWARD founder James Luckhurst called the motion a strong sign of growing support for equestrian safety.