Campaigners in Didcot are expected to increase pressure to ban motorcycles and off-roaders from the Ridgeway.

At a public meeting on November 19, the Ridgeway National Trails management group plans to present a package of proposals to protect the 6,000-year-old path.

But John Lightfoot, of the North Berks Motorcycle Club, said motorcyclists were being unfairly blamed for damage to the Ridgeway.

Various sections of the path, including stretches through Oxfordshire, are damaged, with deep ruts in the surface.

The management group, which includes Oxfordshire County Council, wants to secure funding for repair work over a three-year period.

The group also wants to introduce traffic regulations, restricting motorcyclists and off-road vehicles.

But Mr Lightfoot said members of the motorcycle club were also concerned to protect the path from damage.

He added: "Motorcyclists are often unfairly blamed for the deep ruts, which could only be caused by large farm vehicles."

The management group -- set up by The Countryside Agency -- will also discuss ways to manage access and use of the Ridgeway, including a survey of the type of vehicles using the path.

Duncan Mackay, Countryside Agency regional director for the South East, said the measures would be subject to public consultation.

He added: "Our task is to ensure that this historic route is cared for so future generations can enjoy it."

The public meeting will take place at the Civic Hall in Didcot at 6.30pm on November 19.

The proposals are on the National Trails website at www.nationaltrails.gov.uk/ridgewayframeset.htm