AN important nature reserve that is home to rare species of wildlife and flowers has been damaged by off-road motorcyclists.

The Ferryhill Carrs, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, has become a favourite venue for quad bikers in recent weeks. But reckless bikers have smashed fences, destroyed footpaths and caused a nuisance to locals who regularly use the beauty spot.

They have even removed a stile crossing the main railway line that runs through the site, which has obvious safety implications.

Deborah Ferguson, Local Nature Reserve officer for Sedgefield Borough Council, said at least ten incidents had been reported to police in the past three weeks.

She said: "They have smashed fences to get on to the site and churned up the footpaths when they get on there.

"It's affecting the people who go down there and use the place responsibly.

"It's damaging for the wildlife and for the people who use it regularly, which is the whole point of a nature reserve.

"I've reported everything to the police and I've also reported it to the British Transport Police.

"I'm also liaising with Sedgefield Borough Council's Community Force."

The area is important for its extensive fen vegetation and woodland and is a significant wetland area that attracts a variety of birds including swans and geese.

Durham Constabulary has launched an Easter crackdown to tackle the growing menace of off-road motorcyclists and has brought in extra officers.

A police spokesman said officers from the force's motorcycle section had promised to give the Ferryhill Carrs area extra attention in the next few weeks.