A MAJOR motorsport event in the Yorkshire Dales has been cancelled due to the hot weather and potential fire risk it poses on the moorland.

Richmond Motor Club has said it regrets having to cancel the Reeth Three Day Trial, due to be held from July 20-22, but made the decision after seeing the devastating effects of fires on Saddleworth Moor and other similar fires.

A spokesman said: "Richmond Motor Club has not taken this decision lightly, as much work has already been undertaken by our dedicated team of clerks of course, secretaries and helpers, however as a responsible club, we feel that we cannot put our local moorlands at risk, nor put gamekeepers, landowners and farmers in such a position where running the trial could put their livelihood, birds and animals at risk.