Tractors in go slow fuel protest

Farmers say the price of red diesel has doubled in the last year

About 100 farm vehicles, including tractors, have staged a go slow in Hampshire in a protest over the rising cost of fuel.

Police advised motorists to avoid the A31 between Ringwood and junction 1 of the M27 from 1000 BST.

The slow convoy, which had a police escort, took about two hours and caused long delays in the area.

Hampshire farmer Bruce Horn said red diesel had doubled in the last year and urged action from the government.

He added: "We need to take this action for the government to take action against the spiralling cost of fuel.

Alter route

"We want them to abolish the proposed 2p increase in duty in October and give some of their profits back.

"We're also asking for a rebate for farmers, hauliers and people like doctors and nurses."

The convoy started at Stoney Cross and travelled along local roads towards junction 1 of the M27 where it joined the A31.

They then travelled westbound back to Stoney Cross before heading onto the A337 via Minstead to complete their journey.