A RUNNER has slammed off-road bikers who are using Rossendale's picturesque moorland as a race track.

Paul Healey, the vice chairman of the Clayton Harriers, claims the group of bikers are ruining bridleways and public footpaths around Loveclough.

Mr Healey, who organises the annual Great Hameldon Hill run across the Valley, said: “The land is now absolutely horrendous.

"It's ankle deep in mud. Runners like myself, ramblers and even mountain bike fans struggle to get over the moorland at Great Hamledon Hill because it has all been churned up.

“The County Council has not long worked on the public paths up there, but they are now all ruined.

"I have nothing against the sport but I think it should be held somewhere more appropriate.”

A group of motorcyclists has been meeting on a Saturday morning at the public track entrance in Loveclough.

Mr Healey, 64, added: “These bikers make their way to Loveclough in two white vans so I am sure if they could travel to somewhere else more appropriate.

"They are simply just creating dangerous conditions.”

It follows an incident last week when eight men sparked a major rescue operation when they attempted to go 'greenlaning' near Darwen Tower.

This is the practice of driving 4x4 vehicles on unsurfaced tracks through the countryside for an ‘extreme sport’.

However Coun Dorothy Farrington, who represents Loveclough, said: “I feel really sorry for these young people as wherever they go it's never right.

"I think we should try harder to provide a space for them as they are interested in a sport that is keeping them off the streets.”