VILLAGERS are getting revved up about controversial plans to host motocross races near their homes.

People in South Wonston are planning to oppose plans to hold scrambling events at Three Maids Hill, near Winchester.

Tony Child gained a temporary five-year licence to hold races at Down Farm in 2004 but now wants to ask the council if he can host them permanently.

Previous plans provoked 250 letters of objection and a recent survey showed 471 residents opposed further development at Three Maids Hill.

However Mr Child, who lives in Sutton Scotney, claims he would only hold 12 meetings a year – three fewer than at present. He also said noise from bikes did not exceed 96 decibels and that it was a background buzz compared with the A34.

Mr Child is holding a public meeting on the application on March 16, at Littleton’s Memorial Hall, from 7pm.