POLICE are once again present on the A33 near Micheldever this weekend after receiving information that horse and trap racing is planned for the area.

It follows similar events occurring on the stretch of road, which runs between Basingstoke and Winchester, last month.

Hampshire Constabulary has said it will "not be tolerating" any unauthorised activities, but has no plans to close the road at this time.

Posting to Facebook, a spokesperson for Basingstoke police said: "We wanted to update you on why you may again have noticed a significant policing presence along the A33 and the surrounding roads this morning (Saturday, 26 June).

"We received information regarding planned unauthorised horse and trap racing due to take place again throughout this weekend.

"Officers will be out again this weekend to prevent and deter illegal activity in this area and across Hampshire.

"Officers will deal with any offences, and will be capturing evidence to enable them to follow up with any incidents not dealt with at the time."

In a police operation conducted last weekend, one motorist was dealt with for drugs offences, three for drink driving, and one for driving whilst unfit.

A wanted man was also arrested for failing to appear at court and five vehicles were seized for having no insurance.

Addressing the continued police crackdown, Chief Superintendent Paul Bartolomeo said: “Racing on public road networks is an offence, and will result in us taking enforcement action.

“These activities can be conducted lawfully elsewhere, such as on private land, and we will not be tolerating the use of Hampshire’s roads for an illegal sporting event.

“We will deal with offences robustly, and take action wherever we have a power in law to do so."

He continued: “A Section 35 dispersal order has been authorised from 3pm on Friday 25 June and 3pm on Sunday 27 June, and will be in place across the whole of the county.

“It gives officers the power to disperse people under Section 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014; they can also seize any items used in the commission of anti-social behaviour.

“We appreciate the support of our partners in managing this situation, as well as the patience of the communities we serve.”

There is currently no plan to close the road, however police have said the option will be "balanced against the risks to motorists".

The policing operation has been in place since yesterday evening, Friday June 25, and will run until tomorrow, Sunday June 27.

If you have any concerns or information on any criminal activity taking place, please contact police on 101 or on 999 if it is an emergency.