By G.A.R.
I refer to last week's article headed 'Plea goes out to horse riders' in which Councillor Ron Smith highlighted the issue and also stated his hopes that common sense would prevail.
Over the weekend, horse riders continued to use the paths of Wilton Lodge Park with fresh manure deposits littering the surface. Another rider rode their horse on the third fairway of the Vertish Hill golf course, opposite Woodend Cottage, and anothe
r galloped his horse twice around Acreknowe Reservoir on Monday lunchtime.
Many other paths and tracks are now being used by inconsiderate horse-riders all around the town and at present the firm ground has avoided considerable damage to the surface but the general public still have to sidestep the horse manure deposits during their walks.
A Landowner in Ross-shire recently won his case at the Court of Session to restrict horse-riders from using paths and tracks on his land.
Lord Eassie stated: "Allowing horse traffic would, in all probability, produce damage. The couple acted responsibly in preventing equestrian access to a sector which they intended for the enjoyment of pedestrian visitors."
I have reported these issue to the access officer at Scottish Borders Council and pointed out that a selfish few are abusing their right of access under the Land Reform Act and that SBC should take action on this matter.
Should those who are responsible read this letter, I would sincerely request that they refrain from using recognised public paths and recreational areas before the council imposes restrictions.
