Off-road motorcyclists cause 'extensive damage' to peat land

DEFA says riders illegally using countryside as playground

A number of off-road motorcyclists have caused 'extensive damage' to an area of peat land in the north of the Island.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture says a minority of riders have been using the Manx countryside 'as a playground'.

Motorbikes have been ridden illegally in the Slieau Dhoo area near Kirk Michael, where the damage has been caused.

Government says protecting this kind of land is a priority of DEFA, as the upland peat soils are the 'Island's largest carbon store'. 

It adds anyone caught driving or riding illegally faces prosecution and a £1,000 fine.