A PETITION for a “Pegasus crossing” for horse riders in East Dorset has started in Ferndown.

Riders concerned by the dangers of crossing the busy Ringwood Road near the Angel Inn at Longham are hoping Ferndown people will sign up to support their campaign.

The petition is the brainchild of Shelagh Bellamy, who has ridden for 35 years on a network of bridleways stretching between Longham and Hurn.

“If an accident occurred while crossing that stretch of bridleway, it would cause a terrific pile-up of cars and lorries – I dread to think what might happen,” she said.

“I can’t imagine how I would feel if one of my friends or a horse was killed because nobody had listened to our concerns,” said Mrs Bellamy.

Local riders received a boost to their case for an equine crossing at a special meeting held recently in Ferndown to discuss traffic issues in the town.

The meeting, called by former mayor Cllr Lesley Dedman, generated a 10-point plan of suggested improvements, including a Pegasus crossing.

Cllr Dedman, who also rides horses, said a subsequent meeting with highways officers from Dorset County Council had made the suggestion of a horse crossing at Angel Lane “a real possibility”.

“It’s great that riders have this fantastic bridleway network through the county, which brings them to Ferndown,” she said.

“But this black spot on our patch must be addressed, and soon – before it’s too late.”

Dorset County Council’s transport policy manager, Steve Williams, said highways bosses at County Hall had given a pledge to Ferndown Town Council to consider all of its 10 proposals.

“Where necessary we will undertake survey work and prepare detailed design and cost estimates over the coming months,” he explained.