Tack sabotage attempt on Etape Caledonia cycle race

  • Published

An attempt to disrupt a cycle race by spreading tacks and drawing pins on the road has been described as "reckless and completely irresponsible".

Police said metal screws and staples were also found on the road prior to the start of the Etape Caledonia cycle race in Highland Perthshire.

It is the only bike race in the UK where all the roads are closed to other traffic during the event.

The 81-mile charity ride was disrupted in similar style in 2009.

On that occasion hundreds of the 3,500 people taking part suffered punctures to their tyres.

Police said that this time the event was not disrupted.

One cyclist, who was not connected to the event, suffered a puncture.

The debris was discovered between Weem and Strathtay.

Tayside Police said: "This attempt to disrupt the event was reckless and completely irresponsible and it is fortunate that no injuries were caused."