THE British Horse Society has presented the Forestry Commission's North York Moors district with a national accolade for protecting important bridleways.

The Elizabeth Kirk award has been made for agreeing to designate more than five kilometres of trails as legal rights of way.

Six important links through Broxa Forest and Harwood Dale, near Scarborough, have now been enshrined in law and protected for future generations of riders.

Mr Andrew Smith, forest district manager, and recreation ranger Mr Brian Walker received the award in London from Baroness Hayman, minister at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food with responsibility for equestrian issues.

Mr Walker said it was delighted with the award, despite stiff competition from elsewhere in the country.

"Our forests are an important resource for local riders, providing safe off-road routes and stunning countryside.

"It's very gratifying that the BHS has recognised our commitment to working together to improve facilities."

Two years ago the BHS and the Forestry Commission signed a concordat to balance and promote the interests of horse riding in the nation's woodlands.

That also meant that riders were no longer required to pay for permits before using routes in most publicly-managed woodlands.