Motorbike damage at North Walney Nature Reserve 'unacceptable' say Natural England

A woman saw a motorcyclist flying through the dunes of North Walney Nature Reserve and wants to see more people respect the area.

The Walney resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "I was walking along the beach and there was a man on a motorbike racing through the dunes causing damage. This is a nature reserve and should be respected."

The site is run by Natural England.

GATEWAY: A gateway to natural beauty at North Walney Nature Reserve by The Mail Camera Club member Evelyn Corkill

A spokesman said unlawful biking or vehicle activity on a protected site is a criminal offence which can result in a fine in the magistrates court of up to £20,000 or an unlimited fine in the crown court.

“We will always try to balance the needs of the environment and wildlife with the use and enjoyment of the countryside by the public," said the spokesman.

"However, using a motorbike on a National Nature Reserve and creating damage is absolutely unacceptable and against the law.

"I am sure that no rider seeks to destroy the countryside, but this activity is causing harm to a site that needs to be protected.”

PHOTOGRAPHY: Black Combe from North Walney on a sunny winters day, taken by Mail Camera Club Member Brian McGrevey

The reserve is regularly used by walkers and has become more popular with an increase in people getting out in the fresh air for their government permitted daily exercise.

North Walney councillor Des Barlow said: "These people should not be doing that on there as both nature reserves are important to the people of Walney Island.

"People want to appreciate them as they should be. These motorcyclists want to think about other people.

"That area is only for pedestrians going there for walks, not motorcyclists.

"There is just no need for it. They could also be causing a nuisance for people, especially at this time where more people are out doing their daily exercise."