A ROCKING horse maker is leading a Europe-wide campaign to save the traditional toy from bureaucrats.

Under a new European Union regulation, any rocking horse is illegal if it stands more than 2ft from floor to saddle.

Worldwide, about 1,000 members of the Guild of Rocking Horse Makers are furious at the decision and have said it would destroy the traditional craft practised by professionals and thousands of enthusiasts.

A European-wide campaign is now under way to save the rocking horse.

It has been organised by the guild president Tony Dew, 55, who opened the Rocking Horse Shop two years ago in the village of Fangfoss, near York.

He said: "I don't know of any child being seriously hurt on a rocking horse.

"If it is a question of safety, where are the facts to support this ludicrous ruling? Do these EU officials want to take all the fun and adventure away from children?

"There must be around 1,000 rocking horses made this year in the UK, mostly by enthusiasts, to give pleasure and excitement. Many are donated in December to bring joy to sick children in hospitals and hospices. Tens of thousands are made world-wide."

His company, which employs 12 people, sold 1,350 plans and kits to enthusiasts around the world this year.

Yorkshire MEP Robert Goodwill has condemned the decision. He said: "It is the nanny state going crazy at the worst possible time - before Christmas."