Hedge End: Unauthorised pony and trap ride-out

A gang of around 60 people gathered on Lower Northam Road in Hedge End to participate in the event.

Police were deployed to the area and the road was closed to ensure the safety of the public on Sunday.

Two officers received minor injuries but did not require hospital treatment and remained on duty.

Two people were arrested and police are now appealing for any footage of the incident.

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A 24-year-old man from Guildford was arrested on suspicion of being drunk and disorderly in a public place, being drunk in charge of a pedal carriage/animal, and causing criminal damage to a police vehicle.

A 50-year-old man from Fareham was arrested on suspicion of common assault of an emergency worker, drunk in charge of a carriage/animal, failure to stop when directed by a Police Constable, and possession of Class A drugs.

They have both been release on conditional bail until July 30; pending further police enquiries.

Detective Sergeant Lisa Robins, said: “We want to reiterate that anti-social behaviour and criminality will not be tolerated.

“Events such as these are unauthorised and cause significant disruption for road users and the local community.

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"As such we will take robust action against any anti-social behaviour, including using powers of seizure for vehicles and animals.

“These events should be properly authorised via the local authority and in doing so ensuring the safety of for attendees, members of the public and emergency services, and we will take robust action against any behaviour that threatens this safety.

“We will review all feedback from members of the community in relation to policing future events.

“We are imploring anyone with either mobile phone footage, or dash-cam footage if you were driving in the area at the time, to please come forward if you have video evidence of any element of the ride-out.

"Any captured footage could prove fruitful in our investigation and help us to identify any individuals who may have been involved in criminality or committing offences as a result of their actions.

“We encourage anyone with concerns to report these via 101 or by using our website – quoting crime reference number 44230169507.

“Always call 999 if a crime is progress or if somebody is in danger.”