A MOTORIST has been arrested over allegedly driving under the influence of drugs after being spotted driving past road closure signs.

North Yorkshire Police said a traffic patrol saw the driver, who has not been identified, driving at speed through Ripon before ignoring a signs barring traffic from High Skellgate in the city centre.

Traffic constable David Minto said when the car was pulled over on Saturday night there was a "suspicious smell" coming from the vehicle.

He said the driver failed a roadside drug-wipe test, which found positive indications for cocaine and cannabis.

Police said the driver later gave a blood specimen and has been bailed.