MOTORCYCLISTS using protected sands at South Gare, Redcar, have been warned they could be banned, lose their licences and be prosecuted as part of a crackdown.

The area is protected by English Nature as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, a Special Protection Area and a Ramsar Site, land listed as Wetland of International Importance.

The protection covers the whole of the beach and sand dune areas on both Corus land and land belonging to Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, from The Gare to the site of the old Redcar pier at the end of the promenade.

The most worrying report came from a woman who was walking her dog between the dunes when a motorbike roared over her head, seemingly unaware of her presence.

A year ago, a similar operation confronted riders from as far afield as Newcastle, Durham and Sunderland.

Last year, riders claimed they thought that it was within the law to ride on the dunes, but Cleveland Police are warning that if they do not stay away they could face fines of up to £20,000.

Inspector Mick Bennett, head of Cleveland Police's road unit, said: "I hope the increased police activity in the area, aimed at talking to riders and explaining the situation, will persuade them to respect both public safety and this important site."

Peter Lane, from Redcar and Cleveland council, said: "We are committed to ensuring the public are allowed to enjoy all the features of this site in a safe environment and will continue to give the site the protection it needs."

In a bid to catch motorcyclists police are stepping up patrols in the area.

Officers have also been equipped with trail bikes so they can catch any riders who try to escape.