PROGRESS is being made towards safer horse riding for everybody, members of the South West Riders were told at their recent annual meeting. Chairman Christine Ingram, at the meeting in Sourton Village Hall, reported steady progress on the new bridleway at Thorndon Cross and was particularly glad it was going ahead in a spirit of co-operation and understanding by all affected. She hoped everybody would gain some positive advantage from the scheme. South West Riders' main concerns have always been the dangers for all concerned of horse riding along busy single carriageway A roads and how these can be reduced to an acceptable level. Statistically, roads such as the A3079 and the A386 are the most dangerous for all road users, not only horse riders. They are constantly searching for safe ways of crossing these dangerous obstacles as safely as possible for horse riders, cyclists and pedestrians and have made a number of detailed proposals to Devon County Council which, if implemented, will result in greater and safer access to both existing bridleways and Dartmoor National park. To round off the evening one of the most respected and experienced farriers in the area, Steve Luxton, gave a fascinating talk about dealing with the care of horses' hooves and how their active lives can be extended by careful management. This was followed by a convivial supper. South West Riders is an organisation affiliated to the British Horse Society which works to improve access to safe riding for all by the creation of new bridleways, ensuring existing bridleways are properly maintained and that crossings of public highways are made as safe as possible.