Off-roaders and quad-bikers 'intimidate' family on walk near Forest Town

A Mansfield family who were on a Sunday woodland walk say they have been ‘intimidated’ by quad and motor-cross riders who crossed their path.
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The dad, mum and their two young children were walking in the Maun River area, between Spa ponds and Forest Town, heading towards the Parliament Oak, Sherwood Forest.

The family, who wish to remain anonymous, were near the Sherwood Forest Fishery, at about 1pm, on Sunday, January 23, when they encountered two groups, riding quad and motor-cross bikes.

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The father said: “There were two gangs, they came about 20 minutes apart, there must have been about 16 people, eight in each gang, and they were riding around on what is forestry commission land.

Police are stepping up action to combat off roaders in Sherwood areaPolice are stepping up action to combat off roaders in Sherwood area
Police are stepping up action to combat off roaders in Sherwood area

“There were lots of people out walking and the riders were tearing about, splattering people with mud and stones. It was very intimidating, anti-social behaviour destroying the countryside. None of them had registration plates. My family saw it happening again last Sunday (January 31).”

Clipstone resident and parish councillor, Wayne Swiffin said: “It’s a shame that some motorbike riders care not for other people and while riding on paths illegally, also go out of their way to intimidate walkers and runners.

"I’ve seen police officers patrolling the paths before now, but something does need to be done. It would be great if there was a specific area that off-road motor bikers could use safely and without breaking the law."

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Police say they are taking ‘proactive’ action to combat anti-social off road behaviour in the area.

Inspector Heather Sutton, said: “Driving or riding off-road vehicles is not only a nuisance, it can be dangerous riding so close to others who are trying to enjoy the outdoors.

“It is an issue that we are working hard to curb, and we are doing this proactively. The Sherwood team have several dates upcoming in the next few weeks when we will be running Op Jericho, our operational response to off-road anti-social behaviour. We have secured the Off Road Bike team, drone and rural specials who will utilise the 4x4 and quad.

“People should be able to enjoy open space without having their outing spoiled and put in danger by people who cannot respect the environment and people around them. If you see this type of behaviour, please do not hesitate, contact 101.”