I AM writing in support of Linda Hughes and Chris Ingram (Times, August 8) regarding bridleways and the safety of riders in the Okehampton area.
In the last few months have there been a number of accidents on the A386 on what must be one of the most dangerous roads in the county.
Despite this, the North Devon Coast and Countryside Service withdrew the horse riding permits issued in November 1999 allowing access to the cyclepath from Meldon Viaduct to Prewley Moor. In our case, that means that in winter, our only means of access to the moor is along the A386.
Various reasons were given: numerous complaints from other users. On investigation, this turned out to be one person complaining three times. The Dartmoor Access Group was then blamed. I have a letter from their representative denying this.
The latest reason given is insurance. It is the case, however, that horse owners are probably the only people with insurance that would use the cyclepath.
I have nothing against cyclists, but how can it be right that horse riders should be excluded from cycle paths when cyclists have every right to use bridleways? Indeed, when the cycle path was under construction, signs were put up to encourage cyclists to use the existing bridleway which is less than half the width of the new cyclepath.
I understand that the section from Prewley Moor to Tavistock cannot be opened to horse riders because of a covenant made when the railway line was purchased by Sustrans. Again, how can it be right that horse riders are excluded from a track that is now maintained by public funds?
The Sustrans information sheet clearly shows horse riders, cyclists and walkers jointly enjoying the facilities provided.
Horses and cyclists on roads such as the A386 should be actively discouraged when there are perfectly reasonable alternatives. If the old railway line mentioned in the article was utilised along with the existing cycle path, it would mean safer roads for everyone. Not just horse riders, but motorists, cyclists and walkers as well.
Barry Hodges
WITH reference to your article about re-opening the old railway line as a bridleway — having a daughter who rides I am often concerned about the speed and volume of traffic on the A3079, even with considerate lorry drivers and motorists — horses, walkers and cyclists are still in danger.
If this enlightened idea can be supported by landowners and the county council it would have tremendous benefits for us all.
Mrs V T Spence
Thorndon Cross
I READ with interest your article entitled 'Bridlepath could bring cash boost'.
As well as helping the area, local people would again be able to reach the bridlepaths already in existence.
I would not risk riding my horse along the A3079 nowadays, but if as suggested in your article, the railway line could be used to reach the bridlepaths instead of having no choice but to ride down the A3079, I would thoroughly enjoy riding those bridlepaths again as we were able to years ago before the A3079 was so dangerous.
Yvonne Louffer
Cowsen Lane
Sourton
I WRITE in response to your article about the proposed bridle path to avoid the A3097. What an excellent scheme this would be to all local riders.
I have a mature horse who is 100% in traffic, but although I have ridden on main roads many times, I do consider that this one is not worth the risk.
I have been passed by double-trailer straw lorries, delivery lorries for our local foodstore and many holidaymakers towing caravans or trailers. The road is too narrow and is enclosed by high hedging along much of its length . . . there is just simply nowhere to go if you get into a fix.
Yet to get from the bridleways to the north of this road onto those to the south leading to Dartmoor, there is no other way. This road maroons horse riders on one side or the other. Cycling is equally dangerous.
An off-road link would literally be a life saver. Bravo to the group who have thought it up and let's hope that common sense will prevail.
Brenda Weller
Thornleigh
Thorndon Cross