Prehistoric Woodland Being Destroyed by Mountain Biking

A prehistoric monument and ancient woodlands in West Looe, Caradon in the UK are being destroyed by mountain bikers and motorcyclists. For a second year in a row, Kilminorth Woods, which is a Local Nature Reserve and a draw to bikers for off-track riding, is showing signs of severe damage. "The bikers have built substantial wood and earth ramps, gouging trenches in the floor of the woods for their construction and churning up the earth where they ride their bikes off-track. Worse still, the bikers have deliberately dug out sections of the Giant's Hedge to form tracks."

The area has always been undisturbed - a safe haven for the many different species of plants and wildlife that inhabit it. Last year, bikers were permitted to use the bridleway through the woods; however, they've been using it for off-road biking by creating obstacle courses with ramps and jumps causing much destruction to the fragile environment. Caradon removed all the ramps, but the bikers returned and rebuilt.  In addition, motorcyclists, which by the way are banned, have been using the area as well causing even more damage and creating a hazard for walkers and hikers.

A local environment official stated, "They are destroying the lichens, mosses and ferns for which the woods are known and disturbing the habitat of small creatures such as voles, insects and nesting birds. Deer and badgers are also being affected, and one bike track passes close to an established badger sett."

"Ancient woodland like Kilminorth is the United Kingdom's version of the rainforest", she said. "A mere two per cent is left, and it is still disappearing."

"The vast majority of visitors to Kilminorth Woods use the footpaths in a safe and sensible way, but sadly a few thoughtless trial and mountain bikers are causing serious problems by their illegal and inappropriate use of the woods. The near-accidents, verbal abuse of other users of the woods and damage to the area is wholly unacceptable."