Horses and riders from Wandsworth will be able to negotiate the A3 safely from next month when a 30-year wait for a crossing comes to an end.

Riders have been campaigning to Transport for London (TfL) since 1979 for a new crossing linking Richmond Park and Wimbledon Common.

Until now, in order to stop oncoming vehicles, a brave stable lad walked in front of traffic travelling at more than 50mph.

The crossing, which is expected to be completed by the end of the month, will not only benefit riders but also cyclists and walkers.

Caroline Stevenson, manager at Wimbledon Village Stables, said: “It’s going to be wonderful and will reduce the danger riders have to face on a daily basis. TfL has finally come on board thanks to the involvement of the cyclists who cross the A3 as often as we do.”