| 4x4 enthusiasts condemn beauty spot damage |
| | | | Tuesday's story from BBC Wiltshire Online and BBC Points West provoked an angry reaction from off-roaders quick to condemn the action of the minority who give their sport a bad name.
Off-road enthusiast John Utteridge said the response to the news item amongst the four-wheel community was one of "deep regret and shock."
He says events such as this cause untold damage to the reputation of 4x4 users, a group of people who are often blamed for a lot of damage and pollution without a thought.
 | | Off-roading done responsibly can be a lot of fun. |
"No responsible user would ruin it for everyone by causing such damage."
Most 4x4 clubs arrange days where groups go out and clear and repair lanes, often fixing the damage done by these vandals and helping to remove wrecked vehicles.
"I would like to say on behalf of responsible 4x4 drivers that we totally abhor this type of illegal use and damage of areas of outstanding natural beauty."
Some off-roaders were keen that those responsible should be brought to justice.
Speaking on an enthusiasts bulletin board, one member,Loz, said:
"This incident is an act of crass stupidity. People that do things like that should be reported by their friends so that they can be prosecuted fully."
 | | Most clubs arrange days where they go out and clear/repair lanes. |
Gary and Viv Blackmore are fellow enthusiasts who enjoy their hobby yet also respect the countryside.
"Ramblers and walkers have the Countryside Code and responsible 4x4 drivers we have what is called a "Tread Lightly" policy.
"It is a gentleman's
agreement which basically says if you go out and you find an area that is not appropriate for a 4x4 then you back-off and go elsewhere.
"If you go off-road down a byway open to the public you do not cause damage or start driving over farmers land."
 | | "I told you we should have turned right at the last roundabout!" |
If paths and bridleways, are not used for a period of time they can be claimed by farmers and then the paths are lost forever.
Last years foot-and-mouth restricted access to many of these lanes which have become overgrown.
It is not uncommon for three foot brambles to grow in one season which puts it off-limits for walkers and horse riders.
The group goes out at the weekend and helps clear the lanes. The work is carried out on a voluntary basis sometimes working alongside horse riders and ramblers.
They hope that their work will encourage wildlife back to the area which had been squeezed out by brambles and weeds.
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Ramblers and walkers have the Countryside Code, responsible 4x4 drivers have what is called a "Tread Lightly" policy.
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