The Law Must Do More for Riders Who Lose Their Horses

Yesterday, I asked the Justice Secretary, Alex Norris MP, to meet with me to discuss how the law can better support riders who tragically lose their horses.

Last year, the British Horse Society recorded 2,810 road incidents involving horses, with 59 horses killed. Yet, because horses are classed as property in law, courts cannot properly reflect the emotional impact on riders when their horse is killed.

Improving road safety is vital, but we also need to think about what happens when the worst does happen, and how we support riders afterwards.

Anyone who owns or rides a horse will understand that they are far more than simply property. The bond between a horse and rider can be incredibly strong, and I want the law to recognise the very real impact when that horse is killed.

The Minister has agreed to continue the discussion with me and the British Horse Society about what can be done to change this.

This is another part of my work to make sure equestrian road safety gets the attention it deserves nationally. Earlier this week, I launched a new national petition and call for evidence.

My work on equestrian road safety began with the tragic and moving stories riders shared with me. Those experiences are why I will keep pushing for safer roads and for better support when riders suffer the devastating loss of a horse.

The more signatures and experiences we can take back to Government, the harder this issue will be to ignore.

Sign the petition and share your experience