HORSE riders in the New Forest are demanding action to reduce the risk of accidents involving cyclists.

They are calling on organisers of cycling events to adopt a voluntary code of conduct in a bid to keep the roads safe.

It follows growing concern over the number of people taking part in weekend cycling events, some of which attract thousands of entrants.

Earlier this year residents angered by the New Forest Spring Sportive sprinkled tacks in the road in a bid to sabotage the event. Last month a cyclist was knocked unconscious by a New Forest pony that bolted after being spooked by tourists near Bashley.

Now members of the New Forest Equestrian Association (NFEA) say organisers of mass cycling events should limit the number of entrants to 500 a day.

The association has drawn up a five-point action plan that also calls for a ban on lists showing the time recorded by participants – to prevent them racing the clock. Members have written to the New Forest National Park Authority (NPA), which is devising a charter for cycle events.

The letter says: “A steady stream of 1,000 or more fast-moving cycles can make crossing a road extremely difficult, but some horses will become agitated if kept standing beside a road in such circumstances.

“Making right turns on a horse is extremely challenging if cyclists riding against the clock are unwilling to slow down. In the most extreme cases, cycles pass at an average rate of one every five seconds for more than two hours.”

NFEA chairman Tony Hockley welcomed the growth in cycling, adding that cyclists could improve road safety by making motorists more cautious.

But he added: “Horse riders face particular risks on the roads. Riding on the roads is usually a necessity rather than a choice. Extra consideration is needed to keep riders – and those who come into contact with them – safe.”

An NPA spokesman said: “The authority is pleased that the New Forest Equestrian Association is keen to contribute to the discussions.

“It has now arranged for them to attend a meeting next week so that their suggestions can be considered alongside those contributed by other organisations.”

The proposed cycling code

• A daily limit of 500 cyclists taking part in any one event.
“This would allow spacing of participants and limit the duration, during which it is difficult for roads to operate effectively as a shared space for cyclists and riders.”

• No lists showing rider times.
“The time limit provides a significant encouragement for participants to treat these events as a time trial.”

• Event organisers should publicise routes, with approximate timings.
“This would allow other (road) users to avoid potential danger spots.”

• Riders should be provided with an easy method of reporting incidents of inconsiderate cycling.
“This would encourage a safe and friendly event culture.”

• Each entrant should display a number easily legible from 25 metres.
“Without this, it is extremely difficult to provide accurate incident reports.”