Riding hope despite disease cases

Steps are being taken to protect Hawick's big event

Organisers of Hawick Common Riding are confident it will go ahead despite an outbreak of a contagious horse disease.

The first two rideouts, to Bonchester Bridge and Cogsmill in early May, have been cancelled after strangles was confirmed at a local stables.

Master of ceremonies for the common riding, John Hope, described the move as a "precautionary measure".

A local veterinary practice said the disease could be contained if suitable precautions were taken.

Mr Hope said the only sensible move would be to cancel the first rideouts.

"There have been two outbreaks of strangles confirmed in Hawick," he said.

"However, the outbreak is confined to one group of stables."

Veterinary advice

"If there are no further outbreaks then we can re-look at the situation and hopefully we can carry on with the rest of the rideouts and the common riding itself.

"It is a precautionary measure."

A spokesman for one local veterinary practice said outbreaks of strangles were not uncommon in the UK at this time of the year.

However, if suitable precautions were taken, it could be contained and there should be little threat to the wider calendar of events across the region.

People have been advised to avoid contact with unknown horses.

In addition, they should follow good hygiene procedures if they suspect they have been in contact with a horse or person carrying the infection.