HORSE riders and carriage drivers are being asked to liaise with local gamekeepers and shoot captains following a serious accident in the West Country.

The British Horse Society says two riders were injured, one seriously, when their horses bolted after guns were released close to a road.

It is also asking shoots to contact local riding schools and livery yards warning of their activities.

Kay Driver, chief executive said: "Shooting and horse riding are both rural activities and there is room for each in the countryside.

"However, this incident has highlighted the need for closer communication between the two parties.".

Nigel Davenport, director for the Countryside Alliance's campaign for shooting, agreed: "Shooting is growing in popularity and the majority of shoots are very careful and considerate.

"Naturally I am very concerned about this and I am working with a number of organisations to encourage shoots to warn neighbours and horse owners."

The shooting season takes place from October to the end of January.

However, while there is strict legislation regarding the owning and licensing of firearms, there are no laws to direct shoots away from public rights of way or highways other than not to discharge a firearm less than 50 yards from the crown of a highway.