ILLEGAL dirt riders were stopped in their tracks during a weekend police operation in the Higher Folds area.

Riders were stopped and machines seized as the authorities stepped in on the Red Rose Forest reclamation site.

Police Superintendent Mary Boylan said: "Two machines, including a stolen bike, were seized. One rider was reported for no licence or insurance -- and four were reported for driving other than on a road. A number of others were checked.

"People are concerned about the fields being used as a race track. This operation is a short-term solution. Councillor John Lea is trying to find somewhere for the bikers to go, which would be superb.

"We can't condone what they are doing at the moment, it is dangerous for people with children, riding horses or walking dogs-- and for themselves."

Cllr Lea urges anyone with any information to contact the Police if they see anyone vandalising gates and fences on the site.

He said: "Huge steel gates have been torn off their hinges. Kids haven't done that."