Police Hunt Witnesses After Unauthorised Pony and Trap Ride-Out Shuts Hedge End Road
More than 60 people turned out for an unauthorised pony and trap ride-out in Hedge End on Sunday, April 30. Police scrambled to control the chaotic event, closing Lower Northam Road temporarily to keep motorists and the public safe.
Two Arrested After Officers Injured in Ride-Out Chaos
Officers from Hedge End’s Neighbourhood Policing Team, deployed as part of a planned operation, stepped in to manage the ride-out. During the incident, two officers were slightly injured but stayed on duty.
Two men were arrested following the crackdown:
- A 24-year-old from Guildford, suspected of being drunk and disorderly, drunk in charge of a pedal cycle/carriage/animal, and criminal damage to a police vehicle.
- A 50-year-old from Fareham, suspected of common assault on an emergency worker, drunk in charge of a pedal cycle/carriage/animal, failure to stop when directed by police, and possession of Class A drugs.
Both have been released on conditional bail until 30 July pending further inquiries.
Police Call for Mobile Footage to Crack Down on Rule-Breakers
“We want to reiterate that anti-social behaviour and criminality will not be tolerated,” said Detective Sergeant Lisa Robins.
Robins warned that such unauthorised events cause havoc for the local community and disruption on the roads. Authorities are ready to seize vehicles and animals involved in illegal activity.
She added: “These events should be properly authorised through the Local Authority to ensure everyone’s safety, including emergency services.”
Police are urging anyone with dashcam, phone, or doorbell footage of the ride-out to come forward. This evidence could help identify offenders and bring them to justice.
If you have information, contact police on 101 or via their website quoting crime reference number 44230169507.
