The British Horse Society is actively encouraging local authorities to follow up complaints against riding schools operating without licences.

The BHS approvals department has already brought the names and addresses of several establishments to the attention of local authorities across the country in a bid to ensure riders’ safety and horse welfare, and to create a level playing field for all riding school businesses in the current financial climate.

It is a mandatory requirement for a riding establishment to hold a Riding Establishment Licence that is issued by its local authority in accordance with the Riding Establishments Acts 1964 & 1970.

Establishments not holding a licence may be operating without the required insurance cover or compliance with health and safety regulations.

They may also be using unsuitable horses and equipment and employing unsafe or poor teaching practices.