VILLAGERS have called for action following a spate of road accidents involving horse riders and vehicles on country roads.

Coun Mick Griffiths, who represents Eppleby and Newsham on Richmondshire District Council, said there had been at least three incidents in his ward the space of two days, one of which resulted in a rider sustaining a possible broken rib.

The area, which contains a riding school as well as several private stables, is served mainly by roads with a 60mph speed limit and Coun Griffiths has called for signs to be erected to warn drivers of the prevalence of horses on the highways.

He said: "What's needed here is some basic consideration on all sides - we don't want a tragedy."

Horse rider Michelle Bigg, who lives in Caldwell, was thrown from her horse while out riding near Eppleby last week.

She said: "As I was going through some roadworks, a big truck came up behind me and the air brakes went off suddenly. My horse was so startled, she leapt forward and I got thrown on to the tarmac.

"I honestly don't think the truck driver had any idea he had caused the accident, but to make matters worse he carried on driving behind my horse which was bolting down the road."

Ms Bigg was helped to her stables by some of the roadworkers, and the horse found its own way home.

She added: "I just want drivers to be aware that some horses do get frightened by loud, sudden noises and to ask that all road users - riders included - be a bit more considerate of each other.

"Motorcyclists in the area are already starting to slow down when they see horses which is brilliant, and I hope more people will start to do the same.

"I just don't want to see anyone seriously hurt."

Coun Griffiths said: "I have asked North Yorkshire County Council about putting up warning signs to make drivers aware that a lot of horse riders use the roads and they are looking into it.

"I'd be disappointed if no action was taken because this is a really important issue that we cannot ignore."

A spokeswoman for the county council said: "We will of course deal with this request seriously and review the site in question.

"We will provide the necessary criteria for Mr Griffiths and then assess what action should next be taken."