POLICE are backing moves to make part of Pickering traffic free on Monday market days.

Ryedale's police chief, Inspector Neil Burnett, was replying to criticism from market traders that they were "sick" of abuse from drivers negotiating the Market Place and damage to their vehicles.

They had asked the town council at its last meeting to explore the possibility of traffic being banned and for better policing.

Inspector Burnett said: "The traders should not rely on the police to have a dedicated presence in the area.

"It does not sit high on our policing priorities.

"While we are happy to help in resolving short-term issues, the fact that this is a long-term bone of contention stretching back over many years suggests a fundamental problem with the design of the market arrangements."

Inspector Burnett added: "The traders also tend to forget that in many instances it is they who fall foul of parking enforcement."

He believes the time is right to "look at options for the future".

He said: "If that involves temporary closure of the Market Place then the police would be happy to support action that brought about a long-term solution to the problem."