RUTH Lander's letter on Newmarket's horse crossings (Journal, July 17) is full of common sense as are the proposals by Jockey Club Estates, which address not only the safety of horses and riders but traffic and pedestrians as well.
We should, however, consider the human factor – the willingness of riders and drivers to show due care and consideration to each other.
I feel it would be beneficial for the town's trainers to agree to adhere to a code of conduct regarding ridin
g out.
Obvious elements could include agreeing not to ride out in inadequate light or unsuitable weather conditions and to ensure that trainers and staff receive ongoing training about their obligations under health and safety legislation and their possible liability under the law of negligence.
Specifically, they should be made to use horse walks and crossings and avoid using roads and pavements.
In this regard, I believe that Mr Bell's horses should avoid riding in Fitzroy Street by accessing the Rowley Drive horsewalk through the back of the stables and should not ride through St Mary's churchyard or across the Severals.
On this point, I trust that the time Mr King took his string up the High Street from Rous Road at 7am on a Bank Holiday Monday was a one off.
While it is possible that Newmarket would not exist but for horses – it is the home of racing – one has to pay due regard to the mechanics between horses and people: a horse/vehicle collision will inevitably hurt the horse more, while a horse/human collision is most likely to injure the human.
Ms Lander details some obvious points to consider. It is not, apparently, a criminal offence to use a mobile phone while riding but, I would suggest, it is actionable negligence to do so.
CLLR ANDREW APPLEBY
Fordham Road
NewmarketI AM not against horses in the town but I am concerned at the lack of a safe crossing place for people getting into town from Exning Road.
Crossing St Mary's Square is a nightmare.
As well as horses to look out for, there are cars coming from three directions – it really is an awful corner.
The refurbishment of Regent Court will soon be complete but there is nowhere safe for the elderly to cross. Please help us councillors.
The provision for a crossing already exists opposite Hobbs' empty shop as the kerb is dropped, so there's no need for expensive consultants, just common sense.
So please, let's get people across safely as well as our four-legged friends.
VAL GALLAGHER
St Philips Road
NewmarketThe full article contains 438 words and appears in Newmarket Journal newspaper.
