Police have stepped in to stop pony and trap races in North Yorkshire.
Under Operation Pony, officers have been tackling the races on the A168 outside Dishforth.
“We have stepped up our patrol during key times, namely weekend mornings, and have already successfully deterred several race meets from happening,” North Yorkshire Police officer PC Mike Spittlehouse said.
The most recent meeting was this morning (Sunday).
PC Spittlehouse said: “Three pony & traps and associated vehicles arrived and began setting up. They were sited and reported by a member of public practically on arrival.
“Officers from Harrogate Outer Neighbourhood Team were already close on scene as the report was made while we were conducting dedicated patrol on the A168 at the time.
“Four police units including RPG (traffic officers) were on scene within minutes. The meet was successfully deterred before it started and trap and ponies left the area without issue. No offences were committed.”
He said he hoped the action “serves as a reassuring reminder to you that we, the police, are out there. That we have listened to your concerns re road safety on the A168 and have responded.
“I do not anticipate this will be the end of the issue by any stretch. We will be continuing our patrols in the area at key times.
“For now, hopefully the word will be starting to get out out amongst the community to not use the A168 for future race meets.”