Horses and carriages will be banned from the Bermuda Day Parade which will go through North Hamilton for the first time.

Wayne Perinchief, Minister of Community and Cultural Affairs, said the decision to ban horses had been made at the end of the parade last year after a horse kicked over a bike. However, the announcement comes after two horses bolted in Hamilton in the last three weeks.

Bermuda Day, on May 24, celebrates Bermuda’s Heritage and begins with bikers, runners and skaters participating in the half-marathon, followed by the annual parade of floats, majorettes and other groups.

Mr. Perinchief said: “To ensure the safety of residents and visitors alike and to make the parade a happy occasion, I wish to inform you that horses will not be participating in the parade.

“It is important to note that the past two years have seen incidents with horses and for this reason the decision has been made to exclude them.

“Keeping in mind the Harbour Nights incident and yesterdays it would be insensitive and foolhardy to allow them in the crowds. I do understand that there will be some disappointed riders, but for the safety of all, the decision has been made.”

The ban is expected to affect the handful of carriages and dozen or so single riders who accompany the parade, which starts in Bermudiana Road.

And while horses will be left out of the annual parade, Mr. Perinchief hopes the change in route will help more of the public witness the 12 floats and 52 entries this year.

Also included in the parade this year will be the United States Fleet Forces Band from Norfolk, Virginia, which is keeping with the theme: ‘Bermuda’s Maritime Connections.’

Mr. Perinchief added: “To reflect the ongoing renaissance of North Hamilton, an area being revitalised with a renewed entrepreneurial spirit, the parade route will pass along Court Street and the turn left onto Dundonald street.

“The route this year takes fewer turns and there was a feeling that the parade needed to change. It used to go on Montepelier Road to Cedar Avenue and then to the stadium.

“That route would take away viewing for Bermudians who normally hang out on Court Street waiting, such as the people at the Leopard’s club. We’re taking it back to the people.”