I WISH to remind some motorists that paying a road fund tax does not give them the right to speed round narrow country lanes without regard for the safety of other road users who are not so taxed.

Cocooned in a metal shell, drivers do not realise that even 25mph is too fast when negotiating a blind bend on a narrow lane.

On several occasions I have been told by drivers that they have priority because of paying this tax, especially with regard to slowing down for horses.

For some reason, passing a horse safely brings out the worst in some drivers. Surely they do not want to be involved in an accident.

In and around small villages, the lanes are used by walkers, cyclists and horse riders. Children skateboard and skate, people walk dogs and families stroll with toddlers.

This is their recreation area. They have no other.

None of these road users pays a road tax but, having a right to be there, they do appreciate vehicles being driven slowly past them. After all, living creatures, including humans, are unpredictable.

I appreciate that courtesy and consideration are values which many people no longer espouse, but safety is paramount.

I appeal to the thoughtless minority to ask themselves: "What if an accident were to happen to a member of my family?" and maybe they would see things in another light.

SHERRY ROUND

Worcestershire Bridleways officer,

British Horse Society,

Sycamore Cottage

Eardiston