Risden Woods is set to open to horse riders for a six-month trial period in a bid to keep them off the roads.

Riders from Oak Farm stables, which includes children, have been given a specified route which will minimise time spent on roads under a temporary license.

The agreement, reached between Harlow Council, Natural England, and riders, will allow safe access to local bridleways and byways.

Councillor Nicky Purse, cabinet portfolio holder for sustainability and environment, said: "I am delighted that by working with the horse riders and Natural England we have been able to find a solution which we can trial for the next six months.

"The trial aims to give the riders safe access to byways and bridleways as well as protect the status of the woods as a valuable and well-loved SSSI."

Current measures are set to ensure the protection of Risden Woods' Site of Special Scientific Interest status.

Hollie Oake, from Oak Farm stables, said: "I am really pleased that we have been able to come to a sensible decision for all."