This page contains a digest of news about a newly dedicated bridleway in Aldenham village which was opened on 26 Mar 97.

26 Mar 97: Official Opening of Bridleway in Aldenham

Professor Holderness, Dean of the University of Hertfordshire's Watford Campus and County Councillor Bob Clark opened a bridleway in Aldenham to mark the addition of a mile of bridleway to the Definitive Map of Public Rights of Way.

The route, which runs from the Ver-Colne bridleway through the Aldenham golf course to Aldenham village, is the first length of path in Hertfordshire dedicated as a bridleway for the London Orbital Bridleroute, or 'H25'.

There was evidence of some use of the route in the past, so Dr Phil Wadey, the British Horse Society's Access and Bridleways Officer for Hertsmere, invited the County Council and University to dedicate the route so that this section of the H25 could be completed. The County's Rural Estates section and the University's Watford Campus were pleased to assist with this route.

Dr Wadey said, "The British Horse Society is very grateful to the University and County Council for their willingness to help with the London Orbital Bridleroute project. With traffic becoming faster and roads busier every day, the Society is committed to doing what it can to seek provision of off road routes, thereby benefiting riders and motorists alike. Local Government has a key role to play in the creation of paths, and the Society hopes that with Hertsmere's assistance, the route through Bushey to the Woodland Trust's land will be settled soon. The County Council and the University have performed a great public service in recognising this bridleway."

The British Horse Society is promoting a scheme for a long distance riding route around Greater London, to be known as ‘The London Orbital Bridleroute’, or ‘H25’ for short. Once complete, the H25 will take its place amongst the other long distance rides in England like The Ridgeway. As the H25 opens, there will be more scope for the development of circular horse and cycle rides leading from the main route. Sections of the route in Hertfordshire are opening now, providing greater opportunities for riders, walkers and cyclists. Work on the Essex section started in July 1998.

The British Horse Society is the UK's largest and most influential equestrian charity. Relying entirely on financial support from its members and donors and the tireless work of its volunteers the Society is committed to the well being of horses and ponies. If you value the access work of the Society, join us!