Drivers are being urged to plan their journeys ahead of this week’s Badminton Horse Trials.

The prestigious equestrian event, which begins on Wednesday, May 2 and run until Sunday, 6 May, attracts the world’s premier Eventers to the Duke of Beaufort’s Badminton House grounds in South Gloucestershire.

Saturday’s cross country day attracts crowds of up to 250,000 and Highways England is reminding motorists travelling to the event to plan their journeys, with junction 18 of the M4 near Tormarton expected to be very busy.

Highways England will be aiming to keep the network running, specifically the M4 and A46 to the south of junction 18 and drivers are advised to check traffic and travel information channels, set off early and allow plenty of time.

Gates open will on Wednesday, with competition focussing on dressage on the Thursday and Friday, cross country on the Saturday and show jumping on Sunday.

For more information trafficengland.com or call the Highways England Information Line on 0300 123 5000.