POLICE issued motoring offence notices to off-road bikers near Ruthin after damage was caused to green land.

North Wales Police said it carried out an operation to tackle off-road 4x4 and motorbike riding following “regular” complaints in recent months. It is considered anti-social behaviour that poses a hazard to members of the public, the drivers themselves and the natural environment.

Police said its officers caught at least four drivers in the act at Clocaenog Forest and issued section 59 notices, which warn that they have caused “alarm, distress or annoyance”. If they do so again within a year then police have the right to confiscate their vehicle.

Similar incidents were also reported in the Wrexham area last week.

Sergeant Luke Hughes, rural neighbourhood officer for North Wales Police, said that “there are signs in place, but people are choosing to ignore them”.

“Riding off road motorbikes can be very popular – however, these vehicles can also be used in a dangerous, noisy and anti-social way, generating lots of complaints to police,” he said. “In addition to a safety hazard to both themselves and others, illegal off-roading has a major impact on the environment.

“We would like to remind members of the public that anyone found to be undertaking illegal off-road activity on a footpath or bridleway may be liable to prosecution and illegal off-road riders are liable to have their vehicles seized.”

Riders who want to keep within the realms of the law are encouraged to contact their nearest rights of way officer for information on where they can ride or join an organisation that represents riders.

Sgt Hughes added: “We regularly receive complaints concerning the anti-social use of off vehicles, and to help reduce harm to individuals and communities, we will continue to work closely with partner agencies to carry out operations where we take action against those who show no regard for road traffic laws, or those with no respect for the local community and wildlife.”

“Information received via the public is vital to positive action being taken and we are urging anybody who witnesses the illegal use of motorcycles, off-road or quad bikes in the area to contact us. We would also request that any footage captured is sent to us with as much detail as possible.”

Anyone with information regarding the use of illegal off-road bikes should contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

In an emergency dial 999.