Officers from Shropshire Council’s Rights of Way Team and the Great Outdoors Project recently swapped walking boots for stirrups during a unique personal development session organised by the British Horse Society and the Cavalier Riding Centre.

The training gave the team the chance to experience first-hand the challenges horse riders face on the county’s bridleway network. With limited riding experience among the team, the session proved invaluable in helping them understand how obstacles such as low branches, tight turns, and fallen debris can affect those on horseback.

To ease into the experience, officers first practised on the Cavalier Centre’s mechanical horse, ‘Perry,’ before tackling a course in the indoor arena. The course simulated common issues reported to the Rights of Way Team, including low-hanging tree branches and narrow pathways.

By riding the course and discussing the obstacles with experienced equestrians, officers gained fresh insight into the difficulties riders encounter. This knowledge will help ensure Shropshire’s bridleways are maintained with horse riders in mind, making them safer and more accessible.

“It was a valuable and enjoyable session that will directly benefit our work,” said a team spokesperson. “We’re grateful to the British Horse Society and the Cavalier Riding Centre for their support.”

The collaboration highlights a shared commitment to improving Shropshire’s public bridleways and encouraging more people to enjoy the county’s great outdoors on horseback.