Trainers and farmers conflict over sheep on gallops

A conflict between trainers and locals over the use of moorland near Middleham in Yorkshire is heading towards a resolution.

The Moor is home to two all-weather gallops, used by 14 local trainers. In May, when the trainers erected a fence to prevent sheep straying onto the gallops, a local auctioneer, Rodney Tennant, raised a complaint.

The Middleham Trainers’ Association own 50 out of the 113 “gaits”, ancient rights that allow for grazing on the moor. Local people like Mr Tennant own the remainder.

James Bethell, Chairman of Middleham Trainers’ Association, said: “We had a meeting yesterday with the Town Council where a lot was discussed. It’s a tricky problem but I’m sure we’ll find a solution.”

The Middleham area has a long tradition of training racehorses. Races were held on the moor regularly during the 18th century. The last race on the moor took place in June 1873 after disputes with local gait owners.

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