Two horse riders were riding out of Dinnington Village at Dinnington Road near its junction with Sandy Lane, near Newcastle Airport, when the incident happened at 11.20am on Sunday, November 15.

As the riders approached the junction, the motorcyclist revved his engine, causing one of the horses to bolt.

As it bolted away, the motorcyclist followed it close behind, deliberately trying to continue to scare it.

The horse subsequently veered off the road and headed towards the stable yard, but lost his footing and fell.

The rider suffered severe bruising in the incident. The horse was shaken but unhurt.

Police are appealing for help to trace the motorcyclist, who is described as riding a cruiser-style bike – such as a Harley Davison – and a white helmet.

Pc Rob Smoult said: "We're keen to trace the motorcyclist to speak to him about exactly what's happened.

"The incident caused the horse to veer off the road and lose his footing, leading to the rider and horse falling.

"This could have had much more serious consequences as the rider could have been seriously hurt."

Police believe there was a bus travelling behind the horses and motorbike – thought to be the number 45 from Dinnington Village.

Pc Smoult added: "I believe there must have been a number of witnesses to this incident and I'd urge them to come forward with information as soon as possible."

The rider of the horse which bolted added: "It's the most horrific situation I have been in – trying to bring a horse back from a flat out gallop on a 60mph road."

Any witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact Pc Smoult via 03456 043 043 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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