Several Isle of Wight horse-riders took part in the annual National Road Safety Day, Pass Wide and Slow (PWAS), last Sunday (18th September).
Setting off from Golden Hill, Freshwater at 11am, the aim for West Wight horse-riders was to raise awareness about the importance of motorists to “pass wide and slow” when negotiating horses, cyclists and walkers on the roads.
The national organisers of the PWAS have commissioned a video to highlight the dangers to drivers which you can watch below.
West Wight ride
Representing the West Wight and organised by Victoria Perrett, the contingent included six horses, several dogs, a cyclist and three walkers.
Riders were presented with PWAS rosettes at Golden Hill by Graham Biss, and friends turned up to see the ride off, enjoy coffee and cakes in the sunshine.
Victoria explained,
“We had a prayer and a minute silence in memory of our Queen Elizabeth who was a wonderful horse woman and a lover of the countryside.
“Paulette Thompson led the group down to the Causeway then through the village, returning after an hour for refreshments.
“Motorists were considerate and passed very carefully, including the visiting Mini Rally Drivers.”
What is PWAS?
Formed in 2017, the Pass Wide and Slow Facebook Group have sought volunteers to take out a group of riders or carriage drivers on Pass Wide and Slow Awareness Ride/Drives Nationwide in England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland.
All volunteers work within their local area to educate motorists on how to pass equestrians safely on the roads. They can range from private ride/drives of a group of friends or to large public rides.
Other vulnerable road users, such as walkers and cyclists, are encouraged to join the riders and show solidarity on what is considered to be dangerous issues for anyone using the roads.
Watch
This video was commissioned to highlight the dangers to drivers. Be warned that it contains images that may be upsetting.
Organisers say 2022 has been even more important with the changes to the Highway Code launched in January and “especially with the distinct lack of publicity regarding how to pass horses safely on the roads”.
If you want more information or would like to take part in future years, join the PWAS Facebook Group or email [email protected]
Image: © Keith Pollard
