Code of Conduct

Marshals Will Be in Charge

Marshals will ride in pairs – two front, two back and four positioned through the ride – all will follow directions of the senior marshal (Right Hand Man). Foot marshals will be suitably positioned (as required) at gates and crossings and again all due respect should be given to their requirements. Marshals, both foot and riding, will be issued with radios.

First aid trained marshals will be present at all rides and they should be alerted to any associated medical incidents.

Riders Participation

It is the responsibility of all riders taking part to maintain good control of their mount throughout the ride. If a rider becomes dismounted at any time, it is their responsibility to either remount and re-join the ride or return their horse to the stable or horse box. It must be noted that while it is the role of foot and mounted marshals to advise and direct riders it is not their duty to control loose horses.

Any rider thought to have consumed too much alcohol may be asked to leave the ride. Hirers, Marshals & Police have the right to stop riders who they believe to be unfit to ride.

Discipline at Gates

A high degree of discipline and courtesy should be shown by all riders at gates and crossings. It may be possible and, in some cases, preferred, to pass through a gate or crossing and muster on the other side. Unless otherwise advised, it should be assumed that all gates should be shut and properly latched or tied as the case may be. (Marshals will advise).

Routes

The routes are pre-arranged between the Principals, farmers and police. Therefore, all riders are requested to adhere to the agreed route back to Towerdykeside. If for any reason a rider has to leave the ride early a marshal must be notified.

Basic Manners and Courtesy

Respect should be shown to all fellow riders, members of the public and farmers who support and allow us to cross their land year after year.

Dress Code for Riding

To maintain our high standards, only smart, suitable riding wear will be accepted, (stocks or ties no sports tops or t-shirts). This also applies to anyone joining the ride at any point. It should be noted that protective headgear must be worn with appropriate dark, self-coloured silks. (No multi coloured silks). Head cams are not permitted to be worn on ceremonial rides.Anyone not adhering to the dress code will be asked to leave the ride.

Timing

All riders should be aware that it is essential that we maintain our present high standard of time keeping for the police who control and manage the time we spend on public roads and, not least, the public who enthusiastically await their Cornet’s arrival. (Again, marshals will control).

Emergency Procedure

In the event of any problem arising, be it damage to gates or fences, breakage of essential tack or injury to horse or rider, immediate contact should be made with either a riding or foot marshal so the necessary action may be taken (i.e., first aid, veterinary help or help with spare tack). It is the owner’s responsibility for all costs incurred.

Insurance

It is the responsibility of those taking part, or their legal guardians in the case of minors, to ensure that the participants have appropriate and adequate insurance cover for personal injury and third-party liability cover and they take all reasonable steps to ensure their own safe participation in the events.

General

In an effort to retain some element of respect (especially at Backdamgate mustering point) it should be noted that: –

– Riders must not mount the pavement for any reason at any time.

– Any rider using foul or abusive language or creating a public nuisance will be severely dealt with and will be asked to leave the ride.

– All riders should assist both riding and foot marshals to address any problems.

– Any rider who fails to keep up with the rear riding marshal may be requested to leave the ride.

Young Riders

It should be noted by all concerned that young, inexperienced riders should always be accompanied by a responsible, capable adult, who should make themselves known to the marshals in charge.

Lead Rein

In the interest of safety, riders shall not be permitted to participate in any part of a ride should they require assistance/guidance by lead rein.

Dispersal

After all rides, horses returning to the Common Haugh, Wilton, etc. should disperse via Slitrig Crescent, over bridge and down Howegate under police supervision.

Chase procedure for all Chases

In view of the large number of riders on Common-Riding Friday, the following protocol should be followed on arrival in Rosebank Road at Thorterdykes:

Acting Father’s Chase

– all married Ex-Cornets move forward behind the Acting Father

– all Ex-Acting Fathers line up behind married Ex-Cornets

– all married supporters line up behind Ex-Acting Fathers

Cornet’s Chase

-all unmarried Ex-Cornets move forward behind the Cornet

-all unmarried supporters line up behind the Ex- Cornets

White flag for safe – proceed and red flag for danger – stop. Police will travel the route to help clear and advise public. Marshal at the Nipknowes to give the final go ahead he is happy for the chase to commence.

At the end of the Chase, all Ex-Cornets and Ex-Acting Fathers continue up the road and muster beyond the crossroads. There will be no parking in this area. The remainder of the supporters should enter and wait in the wood as normal. The procession will line up behind the Big Four followed by Ex-Cornets, Ex-Acting Fathers and all other riders at the rear.

All riders must obey the Marshals instructions at all times. Failure to comply may result in a ban Common Rising Events.

Spectators

The Cornet & Committee have worked hard to make these rides and events possible and ensure the safety of all participants and spectators. Respect should be shown to all members of the public, riders and marshals. Please respect farmers land and property.

Please do not block roadways and follow the instructions of marshals and stewards.

Public to remain behind the fences at the Chase.

Walkers

To meet the requirements of farmers, it is essential that walkers follow the exact same route as riders (in some instances farmers move stock to let us through). Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times.

Litter

All litter including food should be taken home or deposited in bins or bags that may be provided. No food should be left where animals might pick it up and eat it.