HORSE riders have been warned after being told that "belligerent horsemanship" and galloping on Frinton beach is posing a danger to other beachgoers.

Police have told riders to respect others when riding their animals on the beach following a series of complaints.

A warning was issued after Sgt Simon Tattersall, from the Tendring Community Policing Team, spotted horses being ridden dangerously on the beach.

“It is not our intention to stop horses riding on the beach,” he said.

“However, there are bylaws that need to be adhered to.

“We have had complaints – and I have personally witnessed while off-duty - dangerous galloping which has been a danger to other beach goers.

“We have had contact with the British Horse Foundation to clarify best practice and hopefully educating and improving the minority of those with poor or belligerent horsemanship will resolve people's concerns.”

Earlier this year fed-up horse owners called for urgent action to be taken after riders were allegedly abused and threatened by residents on the seafront.

One rider, who often travels to Frinton to ride her ponies and horses on the sandy beaches, claimed, dogwalkers launched a ball at their ponies and struck a friends’ daughter in the face.

The disgruntled couple were accused of becoming aggressive, accusing the riders of breaking the law.

Riding in front of the promenade’s beach huts and on the Greensward is not permitted, however, between May and September riding on the beach is allowed before 9am and after 6pm.

In the winter there are no time restrictions.

Frinton councillor Nick Turner said: “We have had discussions with Tendring Council’s enforcement officer about the situation.

“Frinton is one of the few places in Essex that allow access to the sea and have beaches that are horse-friendly.

“But as with all things, too many is too much and some riders have been abusing our hospitality.

“Galloping close to people is unforgivable – there’s no excuse for it.

“It’s all about people sharing the beach responsibly.”