Eclipse warning for horses

London - Horse-riders should stay out of the saddle at the height of the eclipse between 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m

London - Horse-riders should stay out of the saddle at the height of the eclipse between 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. on August 11th, the British Horse Society said yesterday.

"Some highly strung horses may get alarmed by the darkness. The eclipse will be a completely new experience to all horses: the effects cannot be predicted," the body said in a statement.

"If riders have to be out that morning, then they must make sure they and their horses are wearing fluorescent and reflective gear," it added.