Quad bikers churn up village playing field

A field in Ryhope was badly damaged after people riding quad bikes and motocross bikes zoomed over grass leaving the area muddy and slippy.

King George V playing fields in Ryhope was left damaged with the grass ruinedon Monday, after a group rode quad bikes and motocross bikes in what residents have previously described as an “ongoing issue”.

Members of the public reported the anti-social behaviour to Sunderland City Council who are reassuring residents that they are working with partners to tackle the issue.

The council say they will be taking action against those responsible “using all measures and powers at [their] disposal.”

The news comes after residents complained about problems with bikers in January which they say started in Ryhope almost three years ago.

Council Leader, Cllr GraemeMiller said :“It is sad to see that a small minority are continuing to cause issues by riding quad bikes and motocross bikes in Ryhope.

"We are continuing to work with Northumbria Police on Operation Eagle to crack down on this anti-social behaviour and have already implemented measures at key access points to restrict access, increased patrols, seized several nuisance vehicles and issued several formal warnings.”

“This type of behaviour is not only distressing for communities and can be dangerous but is also causing damage to our open green spaces. I would like to thank the residents who have already reported these issues to us; we take all reports very seriously.”