A CRACKDOWN has been launched in a bid to reduce the impact of mass cycling events in the New Forest.

It follows a flood of complaints about the speed and number of cyclists in the most recent event as well as a bid to sabotage the event by protestors, which put entrants' lives at risk.

The National Park Authority (NPA) and other organisations in the district have published a comprehensive blueprint for organisers of the events, which often attract more than 2,000 entrants.

It is hoped the blueprint will balance the needs of the cyclists with the wants of the residents.

The latest event, the New Forest Spring Sportive, sparked a new round of controversy after saboteurs tried to disrupt the ride by throwing nails across the route and 18 cyclists were banned from all future events after urinating in public.

Last year the NPA and other organisations published a revised cycling charter in a bid to banish bad behaviour.

Now the same team has produced a draft charter that provides the organisers of mass cycling events with a long list of do's and don'ts.

The document contains advice on a range of issues, including how to liaise with local communities, provide effective marshalling and ensure that residents are able to supply plenty of feedback.

An NPA spokesman said: “The New Forest is unique in that it is a working forest with forestry, farming and equestrian activity on its narrow roads and tracks. Great care is needed to avoid unnecessary conflict and ensure the safety of all.

“We are confident that event organisers will find the charter useful and implements its recommendations.”

To read the draft document, visit the New Forest NPA website.