Monday March 2, 2015 at 10:36am
The Auto-Cycle Union (ACU), Norfolk & Suffolk Police Constabularies and the Forestry Commission in East England are to apply a zero tolerance approach to any user caught illegally riding a motor cycle in Thetford Forest.
A growing number of riders, including ACU members, have been using the forest to unlawfully ride their bikes and in doing so, damaging vegetation, sensitive environmental habitats for wildlife and, causing unnecessary risk to other recreational users of the woodlands; walkers and mountain bikers.
The Diss Motor Cycle Clubs’ ‘Santon Enduro’ in February was also significantly affected by illegal riders. This has put the future of their authorised events in Thetford Forest at risk by the Forestry Commission - after a period of more than 30 years.
The ACU, represented by Diss MCC, Norfolk & Suffolk Police Constabularies and Forestry Commission rangers will conduct random checks in Thetford Forest starting immediately. Anyone caught without permission will be challenged.
The Police have stated that they will take a robust approach to any illegal riding and will make full use of all powers available to them, this includes the possibility of vehicles being seized and riders prosecuted for any offences.
The ACU has also made it clear that any member caught will, under the ACU National Sporting Code, have their licence suspended.
The zero tolerance approach will be applied to any illegal use of a motor cycle, or other motorised vehicle, on the FC estate in Thetford Forest and across East Anglia, including sites such as two mile bottom.