REPORTS of drivers passing horses and their riders in an unsafe manner in Purbeck has prompted a police response.

Officers in Purbeck are reminding drivers of the Highway Code as it pertains to passing slowly, following recent reports of drivers not giving adequate space to horses and driving unsafely.

Section 214 and 215 of the Highway Code specifies how motorists should respond to animals and horse riders/drawn vehicles respectively.

The code states: “Horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles. Be particularly careful of horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles especially when approaching, overtaking, passing or moving away. Always pass wide and slowly.

“When you see a horse on a road, you should slow down to a maximum of 10 mph. Be patient, do not sound your horn or rev your engine. When safe to do so, pass wide and slow, allowing at least two metres of space.”

A spokesperson for Purbeck Police added: “Stay safe out there and respect other road users.”