MOTORISTS are being warned to plan their journeys as this year’s Devon County Show clashes with a major rugby match in Exeter.

Highways bosses say traffic is expected to be heavy on the M5 over the three days of the show at Westpoint showground.

And on Saturday, congestion is likely to be even heavier as Exeter Chiefs are hosting Newcastle in the premiership play off at Sandy Park.

Devon County Show averages an attendance of up to 10,000 people over the three days at Clyst St Mary, with increase traffic on the M5 north and south of junctions 29, 30 and the A30 east and west of Exeter and the A38 south of Exeter.

Congestion has previously occurred during the morning influx to the show, particularly the M5 northbound between junctions 31 and 30.

Gareth Price, Highways England emergency planning officer for the South West, said: ‘We are working closely with our partners at Devon County Council and Devon and Cornwall police to give drivers as much advice as possible to help them plan their journeys during this busy period.

‘Junction 30 of the M5 could be particularly busy following the opening of the new Ikea store.

‘The north approach to junction 30 could also see significant increases in traffic between 8am and 10.30am on Thursday May 17 and Friday May 18, when visitors to the Devon Show could be using the motorway at the same time as commuter traffic.

‘Saturday May 19, is expected to attract the highest number of visitors and will also coincide with the Exeter Chiefs’ match.

’The A30 and A38 could also see increases in traffic and rivers are advised to plan their travel routes well in advance, and to keep up-to-date with the latest road conditions.

‘Yellow signs will advise show visitors which route to take on the approaches to the show.’

In the meantime, drivers can obtain up-to-the-minute travel information on local radio and the @HighwaysSWEST Twitter feed, by phoning the Highways England Information Line on 0300 123 5000 or by accessing the website: www.trafficengland.com