THE Smithills and District Bridleway Association is on the lookout for new members.

The group, which aims to improve facilities for horse riders in the area, is holding a recruitment drive on March 5 at the Ranger Base, Smithills Hall, at 7.15pm.

During the recent foot-and-mouth restrictions, riders were forced to use busy roads in the Bolton area.

The new association has pledged to work closely with Bolton Countryside Service on the maintenance of off-road routes and increase awareness of safe riding.

This year will see the continued development of a bridleway linking Smithills Country Park with the Pennine Bridleway at Rossendale.