MEASURES to protect ancient bridleways have earned national praise for the Forestry Commission's operation on the North York Moors.
The British Horse Society (BHS) has presented the commission with an award for the best voluntary dedication of a bridleway.
The award follows the commission's agreement to designate more than five kilometres of trails as legal rights of way.
Six links through Broxa Forest and Harwood Dale, near Scarborough, have been enshrined in law, and protected for future generations of riders.
Forest district manager Andrew Smith and recreation ranger Brian Walker travelled to London to receive the award from Baroness Hayman, the Agriculture Minister with responsibility for equestrian issues.
Mr Walker said: "Our forests are an important resource for riders, providing safe off-road routes and stunning countryside.
"It is gratifying that the BHS has recognised our commitment to working together to improve facilities."
In 1998, the BHS and the commission signed an agreement to promote the interests of riding in the nation's woodlands. It meant that riders were no longer required to pay for permits before using routes in most publicly-managed woodlands.
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