A safety group has accused a gang of quad bikers of causing wanton “devastation” on a north-east beach and endangering lives.
Fraserburgh and District Community Safety Group has claimed the bikers have damaged railings at the port’s picturesque sands, and that if action is not taken then someone could be killed or seriously injured.
Last night group leader Brian Topping called for beach users to report any suspicious activity, public drinking or vandalism to police.
“Handrails have been smashed to allow quad bikes out onto the beach. This weekend one of the four lights has been smashed by rocks from the beach which were thrown. Another was damaged.
“The handrail which does into the underpass has been smashed and buckled and we believe it’s the quad bikes.”
Mr Topping, who also serves as a councillor for the local area, has now reported the incidents to the police and the group is calling for urgent action to be taken.
“Down at the beach our beautiful environment is being wrecked by people drinking and smashing bottles,” he said.
“The devastation is being caused by quad bikes, such as at the Waters of Philorth. I’m not a killjoy. I want a meeting with these people. Enough is enough.
“If it’s against the law people shouldn’t be doing it. In the dunes they could easily knock someone over.”
Mr Topping has suggested amnesty talks with the group so an agreement can be reached on how they can continue their activities legally and safely.
“We need consideration for others. It’s about civic pride – or the lack of civic pride. They’re going up and down the dunes and people jog there.
“The folk with quad bikes are showing no consideration for the landscape or people’s safety. Let’s sit down and talk.”
Last night Inspector Colin Taylor said: “We have been made aware of antisocial behaviour and littering around the children’s playpark in addition to the illegal use of quad bikes.
“Officers will be carrying out patrols in the area.”
Anyone with information should call 101.