CAN I take the opportunity of the festive season to express my sincere thanks to all those motorists who over the last 12 months have shown such courtesy and consideration to my heavy horse Abbi and me (and indeed to all other horse riders). Passing wide and slow may seem only a little thing but it makes such a huge difference in terms of health and safety for all concerned and to allaying any perfectly understandable fears our horses may have at being passed by a fast moving close vehicle in either direction. It is apparent that there are a great many drivers and passengers out there with a love and affection for horses and whose day is enriched by these encounters. I often particularly notice the happy smiling faces of the children in the back of the car whose otherwise boring car journey has been brightened by the sight of a horse and rider. Tractor and lorry drivers are, I feel, worthy of special mention perhaps because of the greater skills needed to drive such vehicles, but motorcyclists can also be most helpful perhaps because of a common feeling of vulnerability to bad driving. Yes there are still a few drivers who have no real understanding of how important it is to show consideration, but I like to think that it stems from ignorance of the behaviour of horses (and indeed of the requirements of the Highway Code) rather than any malicious intent. Let us enjoy 2005 together recognising and understanding the needs of all our fellow road users in safety and enjoyment. Richard Leonard Press and publicity officer South West Riders Menfreya Thorndon Cross