A salesman was last night hailed a hero after he managed to rein in a horse bolting through Hamilton pulling its carriage - unmanned.

The horse bolted in Front Street, the second time in three weeks that horses have run loose in that road, before running up Bermudiana Road.

But it was spotted by Air Care salesman Warren Vincent who stopped his car and sprinted behind the carriage before he managed to clamber on board - bringing the horse to a stop.

His actions were praised by police who said they would like to highly commend Mr. Vincent for his bravery.

Last night Mr. Vincent said: “When the carriage came close to my car I noticed there was no-one in the driver’s seat. I chased after it in my car because I didn’t want anyone to get hurt.

“I couldn’t get the animal to stop when it approached the traffic lights on Bermudiana Road, because there was a hanging rope on its back.

“I jumped onto the back of the carriage, reached over for its reins before slowing it down.”

Mr. Vincent was able to take control of the horse and bring it to a gradual halt while heading along Par-la-Ville Road, past The Royal Gazette, steering it onto Serpentine Road, through the roundabout.

“I couldn’t just stop the horse, so and that’s why I guided it onto Serpentine Road, near the Bermy Cuisine restaurant.

“I was running as fast as I could when I managed to jump into the back seat of the carriage and climbed over into the driver’s chair - while it was moving fast.”

Mr. Vincent revealed he has no experience of riding horse - saying the last time he did was 20 years ago.

Just over three weeks ago, two horses pulling a carriage ran amok along Front Street on the first Harbour Nights of the season injuring 19 people, one seriously.

It prompted the Corporation of Hamilton to put a temporary ban on horses operating during Harbour Nights.

The Corporation is now investigating yesterday’s incident and secretary Kelly Miller, said: “The Corporation of Hamilton is very concerned about yet another incident that occurred with a runaway horse and carriage on Front Street.

“We are thankful that no one was injured and grateful to those members of the public who assisted.

“It is clearly time to reassess the impact of horse and carriage rides on public safety in Hamilton and the Corporation is assessing further options.”

When asked additional options the Corporation was considering a Corporation spokesperson said it could mean further restrictions, but declined to elaborate.

It is understood the Corporation will discuss the issue at a meeting due to take place early next week.

The horse’s handler, who refused to give his name and speak to The Royal Gazette, also thanked everyone for their help after catching up with the horse in Serpentine Road.

Officers interviewed Mr. Vincent, the driver, as well as witnesses. Investigators are inquiring into the matter.

Police issued a statement yesterday afternoon, confirming the incident, which happened at about 2.50 p.m. and praised Mr. Vincent for his efforts.

“Police attended the scene and assisted with corralling the horse and returning it to its handler.

“The Bermuda Police Service would like to highly commend the member of the public who initially took control of the horse after it broke free,” the statement said.

Brave man jumps on carriage to stop horse