There are now more officers qualified to ride off-road

In the run-up to Easter, Durham Police is predicting a sharp rise in the number of incidents across the area.

The force says it did not want to put off genuine enthusiasts and would provide details of clubs to join and land people can ride on legally.

Officers will mount daily patrols in the countryside, particularly on the east coast and north of the county.

Sergeant Bob Brown, who leads the force's motorcycle section, said: "Off-road bikers create year-round problems but, as the weather improves and the school holidays loom, we expect public complaints about noise and environmental damage to jump quite considerably."

Genuine enthusiasts

He said motorcyclists must have permission from the owners of the land and must wear the right protective clothing, including a crash helmet.

Mr Brown said the number of police specialists qualified to ride off-road had more than doubled as it prepared for the Easter crackdown.

He said: "We are more than happy to offer genuine enthusiasts a helping hand and point them in the right direction.

"We have details of clubs they can join and information about areas of land where they can ride legally and get the enjoyment and thrills they are looking for."