POLICE carried out a speeding operation in Thurstaston after horse riders reported “near misses” with speeding drivers.

On Friday, August 30, Merseyside Police’s rural, wildlife, and heritage team led a speeding operation on Station Road, Thurstaston with The British Horse Society as part of the national ‘Dead Slow’ campaign.

The operation was in response to several reports of “near misses” by horse riders using the road.

Rule 215 of the Highway Code tells drivers to be particularly careful when approaching, overtaking, passing, and moving away from horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles by passing at a maximum speed of 10mph and by allowing at least two meters of space when doing so.

During the operation, 107 vehicles were identified using the road.

16 of those were identified as travelling above the speed limit and were pulled over and advised of the possible consequences.

A Merseyside Police spokesperson said: “Horse riders are classed as vulnerable road users, and the operation aimed to engage with drivers and remind them to take extra care when passing a horse and rider.

“We engaged with numerous members of the public, which allowed further education and awareness of the team and the ‘Dead Slow’ operation. Further information can be obtained about the Dead Slow campaign at: Dead Slow | The British Horse Society (https://orlo.uk/vTfhQ).

“To help ensure the safety of equestrians in this area going forward, the team have worked with Wirral Council’s Road Safety Team and the British Horse Society to get a horse warning repeater sign installed on Station Road.

“We are also asking horse riders to ensure they are seen by drivers by wearing high-visibility clothing and cameras where possible.”