TWO horse riders were injured after their animals bolted scared by a biker who sounded his horn as he passed them on a quiet country lane.

The horses were startled by the sudden noise, on a minor road between Richmond and Catterick Garrison, in North Yorkshire, on Tuesday evening.

One of the riders needed treatment at the Friarage Hospital, in Northallerton, for injuries to her back after being thrown by her horse.

However, neither could provide police with a description of the biker or his machine.

Police would like to speak to anyone who saw a moped or motorcycle on roads around the Holly Inn, at the top of Sleegill, Richmond, at about 8pm on Tuesday.

Witnesses are asked to call police on (01609) 789321 or Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555111.