MOTORCYCLISTS caught racing through a County Durham beauty spot could have their vehicles confiscated, police have warned.

According to PC Kevin Woodcock, the local beat officer for Hamsterley Forest and the surrounding villages, trail bikers have been racing through the ancient woodland every weekend since last year, putting other visitors to the area at risk.

Each week, hundreds of horse riders, ramblers and mountain bikers visit the Forestry Commission controlled woodland.

PC Woodcock, who patrols his rural beat on a 125cc motorbike, said: "They are racing each other up and down the dirt tracks and somebody will get hurt.

"If they get caught in there by myself or my colleagues, they will be reported for offences and may have their motorcycles seized or lose their licence, so is it worth the risk?