Pony and trap racing events stopped by police

Pony and trap racing involves a driver riding a cart

Planned pony and trap racing events have been stopped by police to prevent "significant disruption", officers said.

Dispersal orders for areas around the A40 in Burford, Oxfordshire, and Lower Road in Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire, were issued by Thames Valley Police for planned private events on Sunday.

Supt Nicole Murphy said pony and trap racing was "not illegal in isolation", but added that previous races held in the area in recent months had "led to significant disruption, as well as dangerous activity that puts road users at risk".

People were previously told to avoid the area around Jeremy Clarkson's Farmer's Dog pub in Asthall in February because of pony and trap racing on the A40.

West Oxfordshire District Council will launch a consultation on 10 October to gather views on a potential public space protection order (PSPO) to combat pony and trap racing on that road.