MORE than a dozen rally drivers crashed their cars amid accusations of foul play during a high profile event in North Yorkshire.

Police are looking into claims that saboteurs looking to film accidents targeted the recent TrackRod Rally in North Yorkshire.

Piles of woodchips in the forest near Pickering had been covered up with brambles. The chippings had been identified by drivers as a signal for them to brake at an upcoming bend because they reflect in headlights.

The Dalby Forest rally has a reputation for being one of the fastest on the national circuit, with speeds of more than 100mph reached by many cars.

But with the braking marker hidden from view the drivers had no indication of the upcoming corner and 19 cars careered off the track.

Fortunately, nobody was injured in the incidents which occurred in darkness on September 26, but many of the cars were badly damaged and drivers left shaken.

It also put paid to hopes of a win by experienced local driver, Steve Bannister, from Malton, who went into the event as favourite. His car had to be towed away and he wasn’t able to start the rally the following day.

Police believe the track may have been deliberately covered up to cause a collision which people could film. They are now trying to establish whether any criminal offences have been committed.

Elsewhere on the course, official markers, arrows and safety tape put up had been removed or moved to other places.

Rally spokesman, Keith McGhie, described the incidents as “undoubtedly malicious”.

“Nobody was seriously injured, but there was a lot of damage to cars,” he said.

“For whatever warped reason, people like doing this kind of thing.

“One of the main cars involved which everyone was talking about was Steve Bannister. He’s king of the forest as far as this race is concerned and was among the frontrunners.

“But he didn’t get any further than that corner. They had to tow his car out and he didn’t restart on Saturday. I know he wasn’t happy on Saturday.”

Police are now urging witnesses to come forward. If you can assist call North Yorkshire Police on 101 and ask for PC David Meer or Malton police. Quote reference number 12140175499.