WARNING TO FLAG WAVING CARS

That's the plea from the British Horse Society which is calling on drivers to give horses a wide berth.

Senior BHS safety executive Sheila Hardy urged England supporters to be aware of the dangers flapping flags could create for horses and riders when driving vehicles covered with the English flag.

According to local police dangerous displays of patriotism can scare wildlife and cause horses to bolt.

Sheila goes on: 'The BHS understands fans wishing to show their support for the England team by flying English flags.

'However we would ask everyone to be aware that horses are likely to be startled by the loud flutter that car window flags generate.'

She asks whether drivers could slow down and give horses a wide berth when overtaking.