A REPORT on the impact of a ban on hunting on a North Yorkshire district concludes it is unlikely to have more than a minimal impact on the local economy.

Councillor Mike Bury wanted Harrogate Borough Council to urge the Government to rethink its strategy on the issue, saying a ban would decimate the rural way of life while stretching police resources across the country.

However, officers asked to research the issue before a vote on the matter have concluded it is impossible to put a precise figure on the number of jobs that would be lost.

A report which will be presented at a meeting of the authority on Wednesday, says: "In terms of national employment statistics, the short-term loss would be limited and extend not much further than those employed by the hunt and some employed by the hunt followers who immediately reduced their use of horses."

Officers predict more losses over the next three to five years, but said, in the long-term, the rural economy would adapt to cover them.

"In terms of the effect on the rural economy within the Harrogate district, it is considered a ban on hunting with dogs would be minimal," the report says.

"However, the impact on police resources and the potential damage to police public relations is considered to be an issue."