The amendment to the Marine and Coastal Access Bill which will protect existing equestrian rights of access to the coast has been welcomed by the BHS, H&C has learned. The amendment was secured in the House of Lords by Baroness Ann Mallalieu, who took up the cause of coastal riders at the BHS’s request.

Graham Cory, British Horse Society Chief Executive, said: “No-one should underestimate the importance of this achievement. The Society has been lobbying for two years to ensure that the new legislation does not have the unintended consequence of extinguishing existing equestrian rights of access to the coast. We were fortunate to secure the assistance of Baroness Mallalieu, whose arguments in support of equestrians proved so persuasive.”

Mark Weston, British Horse Society Director of Access, Safety and Welfare, said: “The British Horse Society is working closely with Natural England to ensure that where access along the coast can be negotiated with land owners for equestrians, it is.”