Motorcyclists 'are damaging Lake District pass'

A Government inspector ruled in 2011 that Garburn Pass, which runs between Troutbeck and Kentmere, should be a ‘restricted byway’ – making it a criminal offence for owners of vehicles such as 4x4s and motorbikes to use it.

But Troutbeck man Geoff Brown said that motorcyclists were increasingly flouting the law this spring.

“Motorcyclists are continuing to race up the track and create substantial damage,” he said.

“This is a common occurrence at weekends.

“Substantial sums of money have been spent to restore the pass but if this illegal use continues it will go to waste.”

Now the increasing reports of illegal driving on the fells and on rural roads has prompted police and the Lake District National Park Authority to act with extra parols.

It follows an incident on the Caldbeck Fells where an area of Faulds Brow was torn up by an off-road vehicle – later found abandoned.

“This is an area of Special Scientific Interest and there are strict guidelines on the type of activity permitted,” said national park ranger Pete Barron.

“Anyone in breach of these could face up to three months in prison or a fine of up to £2,500.”

Earlier this year The Westmorland Gazette reported that The Helm, a beauty spot overlooking Kendal, had been damaged in parts by the actions of off-roaders.

The issue was discussed at the February meeting of Natland Parish Council, whose chairman David Peters welcomed the step-up in patrols.

“We welcome this initiative against off-road driving very much,” he said. “Hopefully we can catch and identify the people who do this.”

PC Helen Felton, wildlife crime officer, said: “This is unacceptable behaviour, with a huge potential to cause damage and destruction to our heavily protected rural environments.

“This activity causes substantial damage and can ruin an area. Together we can make it difficult for people to destroy our countryside.”

* Anyone with information should call police on 101 or if a crime is in progress 999.