HORSERIDERS in a south Herefordshire village are becoming too scared to use a bridleway due to off-road motorbikes.

There is an ongoing problem with motorcyclists illegally using the bridleway through the woods between Welsh Newton Common and Newton Court.

Police have now become involved and regular patrols are being carried out throughout the area.

Hilary Boughton, representative of Welsh Newton horseriders, said: "There are lots of horseriders at Welsh Newton Common and this is the only public right of way in the village that we can ride horses on.

"Due to the risk of coming across bikes, many of us are now too scared to ride on the bridleway and are forced to ride on the roads instead.

"Some riders have already had frightening and extremely dangerous experiences where horses have panicked and bolted at the sound of screaming motorbikes approaching."

Police have provided signs to the residents to place on the bridleway to remind people of the consequences of not adhering to the rules and regulations.

SNT Inspector for Herefordshire rural James Ashton said: "We are aware of a number of reports of anti-social behaviour incidents in the Welsh Newton Common area over recent weeks.

"Anti-social behaviour - including anti-social riding of off-road motorcycles - can affect every community and is unacceptable in all its forms.

“We are committed to targeting this type of anti-social behaviour and are working hard in a bid to address these issues."

He said the community plays a large part in helping police to tackle crime - whether it be in reporting crime, responding to witness appeals or informing police of suspicious activity.

He added: “We would encourage people to be respectful of others when they are on public rights of way and would like to take this opportunity to remind individuals that it is not permitted to ride motorcycles on bridleways.

"The SNT will be looking to deal with those doing so by using powers under S.59 Police Reform Act 2002, which can result in the seizure of vehicles."

He said: "I would urge people to always call 101 – or 999 in an emergency – and report any criminal behaviour so the appropriate action can be taken."