A SERIES of action days are planned to clamp down on off-road vehicles on the Yorkshire Dales.

Police and National park rangers will be monitoring the routes used by off-roaders over the winter months The action days will take place on public footpaths, bridleways and byways and are aimed at raising awareness of new legislation relating to motorbikes and 4x4s being used for recreational purposes.

"Off-roading is probably one of the most sensitive issues for national parks in terms of recreation," said Matt Neale, the area ranger for Upper Wensleydale, who is co-ordinating the exercises "Even a small number of bikes in the wrong place can have a serious effect on both sensitive habitats and the peace and tranquillity of the area - just two of the special qualities of the National Park that so many people come here to experience."

He added: "There is now plenty of information available explaining exactly where off-road enthusiasts can go and what is legally required of them, so there is no excuse for people to ride or drive in areas where they have no legal rights to take recreational vehicles."

Specific route information can be found by contacting Mr Neale on 01969-666220 or at www.yorkshiredales.ork.uk/green_lane_management A new free leaflet, Trail Riding in the Yorkshire Dales, was published last month and can be obtained from some petrol stations and cafs in and around the National Park and on the website www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/trail_riding_leaflet_-_2007.pdf.

Police would also welcome reports of illegal off-roading incidents from members of the public. These should be handed into local police stations in Grassington, Settle, Ingleton, Hawes and Leyburn.