IT is the time of year when verges and waste ground are covered in tall, pretty, yellow flowers - which spell death to horses and cattle.

The British Horse Society is once again running Root Out Ragwort Week to raise awareness of the dangers of the poisonous weed and the importance of stopping it from seeding.

Ragwort is poisonous to all livestock, and humans too, so gloves should always be worn when pulling it and it is an offence not to comply with clearance notices.

A spokesman said: "The real danger of the current spread is that it is becoming increasingly difficult to keep hay fields free of ragwort.

"It is particularly dangerous in hay, because horses are more likely to eat it. It is more palatable when dry, but just as toxic.

"Small amounts build up in the system over years and lead to a horrible death."

If ragwort is found in hay it should be reported to the Trading Standards office at the local authority.

It is vital ragwort is eliminated from any field where horses are grazing. But this is proving increasingly difficult for horse owners because of seeds blowing in from neighbouring fields or roadside verges.

For a leaflet on ragwort and how to get rid of it, send a sae to The British Horse Society, Stoneleigh Deer Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire CV8 2XZ.

l Ragwort grows two to three feet high and has dense clusters of dark yellow, daisy-like flowers. It has a pretty leaf with feathery edges and often has a red stem which makes the mature plant readily identifiable.

How to be better with your horse

AN open day to give an insight into the now famous Monty Roberts' methods of helping humans improve their relationships with their horses is being held near Masham on Saturday, July 28.

Sarah Kreutzer is one of ten international instructors worldwide, who teach owners and riders to learn to listen and communicate with horses in their own language. It is based on body language, mutual trust, respect and understanding.

There will be hands-on exercises, demonstrations, a question and answer time, video, talks and a barbeque. An advanced equine dentist, a farrier, aromatherapist, a bucking bull and a bouncy castle will also be there.

The event will be held between 10am and 4pm at Ellershaw House Farm, outside Masham. Telephone Sarah on 01765 658980 for any further information.