Villagers at South Wonston, near Winchester, have won a planning battle to stop land being used by motorcycling enthusiasts.

Winchester City Council has voted to ban the use of motocross tracks at Three Maids Hill.

Eastleigh-based firm, Tonymoto Ltd, had wanted to run two tracks on the site and the decision means they will have to find another location.

Councillors also banned the unofficial use of land at the nearby water tower by motorcyclists.

However, some members of the planning committee were concerned that they weren't doing enough to promote a well-supported sport.

Some 238 signatures were submitted to the council in support the application, with riders citing the track as the only one in Hampshire.

Residents had complained not just about the noise but also about the danger of the track.

In particular, concern was raised over the distraction for drivers on the nearby A34 and the dust.

Tony Childs, owner of Tonymoto Ltd, said the decision had been expected and added that he felt that, on the whole, it was probably fair and that a better site could be found.

"We will now be searching for a new site where people won't be upset by the sport and as soon as we find one, we will be submitting a new application," he added.

Ward councillor, Barry Lipscomb, said: "We are delighted with the result. It will bring to an end the nuisance the people of South Wonston have had to live with.

"We are not against the sport and there is clearly a need for a proper track and while I'm sorry for those people who won't have somewhere to race for a while, that was not the right site for it."