Monday June 3, 2019 at 12:16pm
Illegal Riding
In recent weeks we have received the disappointing news that due to issues with illegal riding, the organisers of the Powys Enduro have been forced to cancel the event as a result of withdrawal of permission to use the Dyfi Forest. We are also aware that land used for the Scottish Six Days Trial is under threat due to the same problem, plus we have received reports from other parts of the country who have either lost land or are close to losing it.
The ACU would like to make it clear that the use of Natural Resources Wales (NRW) or Forestry Commission land is strictly controlled and their woods are not a playground for you, likewise permission is needed to ride on open hills etc ;the length and breadth of the country.
Unless the land you intend to ride on is a lawful right of ways or you have specific permission from the landowner you are not allowed to use these areas, your mate down the pub saying it’s OK isn’t considered permission!
The NRW and Forest Commission are taking steps to prevent illegal use and in conjunction with the Police will prosecute anyone caught, you have been warned.
The ACU have already taken action against any licence holders who are caught and will not hesitate to do so in the future.
There are plenty of events you can enter to use you bike legally including numerous practice tracks if you want something less organised. Please, if you are a licence holder, ride responsibly and discourage others if you know they are illegally riding, it’s your events which they are putting at risk!!
A wise man once said it’s not the environmentalists and authorities that will kill motorcycle sport, it will be the sport itself. They could be right - it’s in your hands!