RESIDENTS are calling for large lorries to be banned from two narrow moorland roads.

A 53-name petition has been sent to county highway chiefs from residents of Grinton, in Swaledale, calling for action against heavy lorries using the roads to Bellerby Camp and Redmire as a short-cut.

A report to councillors says: "These vehicles are said to include several of a large articulated type and the petitioners believe such vehicles should be restricted to other more major and more suitable roads in the area."

A survey of traffic using the Grinton to Bellerby Camp road earlier this year found that 57 lorries travelled the route in a week.

A letter of objection to the ban has already been received from Carrs Billington, a feed merchant in Askrigg.

The company says it would lose money if it had to find an alternative route.

Council officers are recommending further consultation is carried out with haulage associations, businesses and local councils.