Quiet weekend? Wales Clamps Down On Off-Roaders...

The Countryside Council for Wales made a plea to off-roaders not to threaten grazing animals or damage wildlife over the bank holiday weekend. Scars on the Welsh landscape (and the Welsh airwaves:-) have increased dramatically in the last few years. The brunt of the damage has fallen to the Aberffraw dunes in Anglesey, the Dolgellau area, the Dee Estuary, and the Elan Valley. The results aren't too pretty...

The main concern lies in areas with sensitive habitats, particularly Sites of Special Scientific interest. Any activity which might damage an SSSI, including offroading, is illegal without permission from the Countryside Council of Wales (CCW). Riding a motor vehicle anywhere other than a road, without permission, is also a road traffic offence.

Sergeant Pete Charleston from North Wales Police commented: "The damage caused by illegal off-roading can be seen throughout Wales, affecting hillsides, commonland, sand dunes and estuaries. It is of great concern to many local people and tourists who enjoy these places for quiet recreation. Illegal off-roading often amounts to anti-social behaviour. The Police have powers to seize vehicles that are being used illegally after initial warnings have been given."

So, the police have been on the watch over the last weekend. Anyone witnessing illegal off-roading activity is asked to report it, giving as many details as possible, including the registration number, colour and make of the vehicle(s) involved, and the time and date of the incident.

Let's hope everyone out in the hills for the bank holiday had a quiet weekend:-)