24 drivers were stopped by police after passing horses too closely during a road safety operation in a Wiltshire village.
Wiltshire Police joined forces with the British Horse Society in Dilton Marsh on Thursday, September 10, for Operation Close Pass.
The targeted initiative aimed at improving safety for horse riders and educating motorists about how to overtake horses safely.
The operation involved officers from neighbourhood policing teams, the roads policing unit and the force's prevention hub, alongside volunteers from the British Horse Society.
Drivers identified passing horses too closely or too quickly were stopped by officers and spoken to at the roadside.
In total, 24 motorists were stopped and given advice and education about driving safely around horses.
Police said officers and volunteers witnessed several concerning driving behaviours throughout the day.
These included drivers approaching horses at excessive speed, not leaving the recommended two-metre gap when overtaking and accelerating sharply or cutting back in front of horses and riders after passing them.
Officers said these actions can significantly increase the risk of horses becoming startled, leading to serious injury for riders, drivers and other road users.
The operation focused on education rather than enforcement, with drivers dealt with through advice and guidance about the Highway Code.
Chief Constable Catherine Roper said the number of motorists stopped demonstrated the importance of the campaign.
She added: "Wiltshire has a strong and valued equestrian community, with many people using our roads to ride horses every day.
“Every road user has a responsibility to help keep others safe.
"Passing a horse too closely or at speed can have devastating consequences.
“Horses can react unpredictably when startled, placing riders, drivers and other road users at risk.
"Most motorists want to do the right thing, and by providing education and advice we can help improve understanding, change behaviour and ultimately prevent serious collisions, injuries and tragic fatalities on our roads."
The Highway Code advises motorists to slow down to a maximum of 10mph, remain patient and avoid revving engines or sounding horns.
Drivers should leave at least two metres of space when overtaking, be prepared to stop and remember that even well-trained horses can react quickly if frightened.
Police said operations such as Close Pass will continue as part of efforts to improve road safety and reduce the risk of collisions involving vulnerable road users.
Anyone witnessing dangerous driving can report it to Wiltshire Police online.
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