North east forestry staff have teamed up with the police to tackle the growing number of illegal motoring activity in the region.
There has been an increase in incidents, involving motor vehicles trespassing on woodland and forest sites, and Police Scotland and Forest Enterprise Scotland have joined forces to clamp down on the culprits.
Individuals entering woodland illegally on quad bikes, motorbikes and other 4x4s have caused a rising number of incidents, including riders being thrown off horses and near-misses with individuals walking in the forests.
The FES and Police Scotland are now ready to come down hard on offenders and stressed that anybody caught without legal documentation will be prosecuted.
Dan Cadle, recreation forester with FES said: “It’s an issue in Aberdeenshire that we want to put a stop to. It’s dangerous and spoils other people’s enjoyment of the forests.
“Last year, recklesslydriven motorbikes spooked horses, causing them to throw off and seriously injure their riders. One horse then ran out onto public roads and was also injured.
“It’s antisocial behaviour and we intend to make full use of the law to get the message across it will not be tolerated.”
FES personnel want to encourage off-road biking and driving enthusiasts to get organised and join an official club.
Mr Cadle added: “A great example of how to do things properly is the Bon Accord Motor Cycle Club, which approached us for a permit to hold an event in Fetteresso Forest near Stonehaven.
“After discussing the matter with them and agreeing some conditions of use, we were happy for them to make use of Fetteresso.”
Inspector Fionnuala McPhail, for Police Scotland, said: “We are determined to work with Forest Enterprise Scotland to tackle this extreme anti-social behaviour.
“Not only is it illegal for unauthorised motor vehicles to access these forests, but some of the people who do so are driving recklessly at speed across terrain that is more than likely not appropriate for this type of activity.
“They are putting themselves – and members of the public – at serious risk of life-changing or even life-threatening accidents.
“Members of the public who witness such illegal activity are encouraged to report it through Police Scotland’s non-emergency line, 101.”
Sergeant Malcolm Kinross added: “Whilst this has been an on-going problem, there has been an increase in the number of incidents as of late.
“It is an unnecessary problem and there are options to enjoy such recreational activities legally and safely.”
If you are interested in finding out how to gain permitted access to national forest estate sites for off-road driving, contact the local team at: moray&Aberdeenshire@forestry.gsi.gov.uk