The Board of Trustees of the BHS defends the interests of members by fighting Public Inquiries against the downgrading of bridleways to footpaths. For the first time in 30 years the Society, having lost a case, faces paying the costs of the other parties.

The Trustees are very concerned at this outcome and have thoroughly investigated the Secretary of State's grounds for her decision.

Detailed advice has been taken by the Trustees, and the Board has decided it is in the best interests of the Society to pay these costs rather than apply for Judicial Review.

The Chairman of the BHS Board of Trustees, Mrs Pat Campbell, said "This is the first time costs have been awarded against the Society in 30 years and we must treat it as a one-off disappointment. Riders need bridleways, and with the support of our growing membership, now 58000, we will continue to promote the interests of the horse and encourage riding."

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