IN KEEPING with the spirit of the festive season and at the start of the new millennium, Bere Horse Watch members would like to take this opportunity to thank all considerate motorists for showing kindness and courtesy to horse riders and carriage drivers on the roads.

Contrary to popular belief it is often the younger drivers and motorcyclists who are particularly careful. Most of us would prefer to be off the public highway, but this is often impossible, and, like cyclists and pedestrians, we are vulnerable, so we do appreciate this care.

Could I also urge other riders to thank motorists who slow down with a courteous thank-you wave or nod, in acknowledgement of their trouble, and to give themselves a chance by using high visibility clothing — it's amazing how even in broad daylight a horse can be difficult to see on the road.

So, thank you, Bere Peninsula drivers, and our best wishes to you all for a Merry Christmas.

Mrs J Etherington

On behalf of Bere Horse Watch Group