New rules on horse nosebands needed to prevent distress, say researchers

Study found horses' heart rates increased and they struggled to chew when nosebands were over-tightened, leading to calls for stricter regulations on use

Researchers studying the physiological impact of nosebands on horses competing in international equestrian competitions including the Olympics are calling for new regulations to reduce potential pain and distress from the equipment.

The scientists found that horses' heart rates were raised and they struggled to chew when nosebands were fitted too tightly around the animals' heads.