WATCH: Former world champion reveals disappointment as brakes are slammed on Jim Clark Rally
Last updated 14th Mar 2023
Police are continuing to probe an incident which put the brakes on one of the Borders biggest sporting events.
The Westruther stage of the Jim Clark Rally was cancelled yesterday (Saturday) amid claims a farmer blocked the road in protest.
Former world rally car champion Louise Aitken-Walker - who handed out the medals at the finishing line in Duns - says the event isn't possible without local support.
Click on the link below to view our video of the event:
More than 200 drivers took part in the closed-roads event.
It's the first time it has been held in full since three spectators were killed in 2014, although a scaled-back event was staged in 2019.
A spokesperson for the Jim Clark Rally - believed to be worth millions of pounds to the local economy - said: "The organisers have been forced to cancel the second pass of the Westruther stage due to issues outside of our control."
The announcement came as crowds waiting at Scott's View questioned the delay.
One Tweeted: "Hearing the Police have been called to Westruther to deal with a protesting farmer?? Just the partner of a driver informing us. Crazy how one person can cause so much disruption and disappointment."
The incident meant competitors were later reaching this stage at Eccles.
Another replied: "Heard folk had parked in a field on a farmer’s crop and were refusing to move so he blocked the stage. Not sure if true."
A picture of a tractor blocking a road has appeared on social media, with one poster saying: "Farmer parked his tractor on the stage and b*** off with the keys."
Click on the link above to watch drivers leave the ceremonial start in Duns...
It wouldn't be the first time a major sports event in the Borders has been held up due to protesters. In 2017, two men allegedly attempted to disrupt the Tour O' The Borders cycling event by waving sticks at them.
Police have confirmed they are investigating. A spokesperson for the force said: "Police attended at the Westruther stage of the Jim Clark Rally on Saturday, 28 May, 2022 following the report of a vehicle blocking the road.
"Enquiries are currently ongoing to establish the full circumstances and the road has now reopened."