Four temporary barriers have been installed on the Ridgeway National Trail in Oxfordshire as part of the local council's bid to prevent motor vehicles using it.

Despite the section of trail between Aston Rowant and Britwell Salome, near Watlington, being designated as a Restricted Byway, motorists are continuing to use it and are posing a threat to walkers and riders. Oxfordshire County Council (OCC) aims to protect the trail - also known as the Ickneild Way - from damage and has installed the barriers under Section 66 of the Highways Act 1980.

Hugh Potter, senior field officer for OCC's Countryside Service, said: "It is imperative that we stop vehicles engaged in illegal activity from using The Ridgeway, which is one of the most popular walking and riding routes in the county."