LEARNING to ride a horse is a dream for many people, whatever their age, and can be a hugely fulfilling hobby.

It is a pastime accessible now to most, whatever their age, with lots of riding stables from which to choose.

However, this can also make it a daunting task for those unfamiliar with the horse world.

The most important thing to remember when starting out is that a well-fitting hat is an essential piece of safety gear and that you should learn to ride at a reputable school with good instruction. This will help ensure the dream doesn't turn into a nightmare.

Possibly the best way to find a good riding school is by word of mouth.

Failing this, choose one which is approved by the British Horse Society.

The society's website, www.bhs.org.uk, has a list of approved schools from all over the country.

The BHS says: "By visiting a BHS-approved riding school you can be sure it complies with the latest health and safety guidelines, is insured against public liability and that its horses and ponies are well looked after.

"Annual unannounced inspections ensure standards are kept high."

It is important to visit the school before booking a lesson.

The riding school should have a selection of hats complying to the latest protection standard available for clients' use but, if you decide riding is for you, it may be the one thing you want to buy fairly soon.

Look at the horses and ponies. Do they look well cared for and happy? Do they have a range of sizes and abilities of horse and pony to cater for a range of riders of different sizes and abilities?

Many riding schools have an indoor school as well as an outdoor mnage. It is personal preference whether you choose somewhere with an indoor school but it can be a bonus on a rainy day.

If you like the place and decide to book a lesson, half an hour should suffice to begin with and a private lesson is always worth the money. Wear comfortable trousers (tights underneath even for men can aid comfort!), and shoes with a small heel, not trainers. Gloves can be useful too.

Most importantly - enjoy it!