North Yorkshire Police in Whitby have asked me to issue a warning to any rider

using Seggimires Lane and Tom Bell Lane, near Sleights a few miles south of Whitby in the North Yorks Moors National Park.

Seggimires Lane (Grid 879065 to Throstle Nest at 874062) is a UCR and is closed to all traffic by a TRO. According to the police trail bikes are still using this lane. Due to the wet and steep nature of this green lane there is a massive erosion problem due to over use, hence the TRO.

The police already have the registration numbers of a number of bikes who come from the Teeside area.

They say they are reluctant to prosecute, but if riders continue to disobey the lawful TRO then they will not hesitate do so.

The adjacent Tom Bell Lane from Ugglebarnby also a UCR (grid 878072) which does not have a TRO in place is also being abused. A TRO on Tom Bell Lane may follow soon unless over use stops.

Some of the riders stopped say they are TRF members. All trail riders TRF members or not MUST obey the law . TRF members are bound by a code of conduct and should set a good example. Any TRF member knowingly breaking the law can be expelled.

The police have also asked me to cooperate with the local parish council who are extremely concerned about this matter, and I have agree to do what I can.

BRIAN THOMPSON

TRF National Rights of Way Officer

19 Nov 2005

e mail briant950@aol.com