Police hopes of saving Ridgeway

Police officers are to patrol a picturesque part of Oxfordshire that is being damaged by off-road drivers.

They are taking action to protect the 87-mile long Ridgeway that has suffered under the wheels of motorbikes, 4x4 vehicles and even tanks.

The route, which runs through the county from Buckinghamshire to Wiltshire is designated an unsurfaced highway which allows drivers to use it.

Officers will be out on Sunday to advise drivers how to use the Ridgeway.

Route 'ruined'

PC Pete Hale said: "Over the years the Ridgeway has been torn up by motorbikes, 4x4s and even tanks.

"Because of this it has been ruined for the people wanting to use it as a walking route.

"I am currently working with Oxfordshire County Council, the Countryside Agency, West Berkshire Council and other local organisations to explore ways to educate people about the use of the Ridgeway by motor vehicles and how best to deal with the small minority who abuse it.

"Hopefully, this initiative will start to help restore the condition of the ancient route, leaving landowners to maintain it once again."