FEARS that the popular Riphay Scuffle off-road fundraiser could be consigned to the history books have been overcome after organisers reached an agreement with police and council officers.

Over the last 27 years the scuffle, which takes place on farmland owned by Tom and Tim Yandle near Exebridge, has raised thousands of pounds for charity.

However, last year's event was marred by the deaths of two young men who were killed on their way home from the scuffle at Black Cat, while the air ambulance was called out to the event itself.

Avon and Somerset police subsequently raised "a number of concerns" as both spectator and participant numbers had rocketed due to the popularity of the event.

Police spot-checks last year had also found numerous breaches of the Road Traffic Act, which resulted in fixed penalty tickets and prohibition notices being issued.

Now, in an attempt to ensure the long-term future of the event, organisers have agreed to ban overnight camping, and alcohol will be barred from the site.

Tim Yandle said he was delighted an agreement had been reached: "The scuffle has been a part of the local scene since 1984.

"It involves organising our team in a great deal of work, but everyone enjoys the day, meeting old friends and making new ones."

Traditionally, the scuffle included a beer tent, while participants were free to take along their own alcohol.

PC Nick Wood of the Exmoor policing team said he was pleased changes had been agreed in the interests of safety.

"The event raises a lot of money for charity and I am pleased that these changes will allow the scuffle to continue," he said.

"The safety of competitors and spectators is paramount for the event organisers and we are keen to assist in anyway we can."

This year will see the first visible police presence at the scuffle, with both local police officers and their road policing colleagues from the Devon and Cornwall Constabulary attending.

PC Dan Cox of the Avon and Somerset road policing unit warned that officers would be out in force to crackdown on anyone flouting the law.

"I would reiterate to those attending or taking part in the event that we will be conducting roadside drink-driving checks and also looking at the road worthiness of vehicles and trailers," he said.

"I would remind participants that tractors using red diesel are for agricultural and horticultural purposes and are not for the purpose of towing 4x4s on or off trailers to the event."

He said police would be conducting roadside checks on tractor tanks and warned that those breaking the law would be punished.