GWENT Police have seized three motor vehicles and chased off hundreds of illegal off-roaders from beauty spots across Gwent as part of a targeted operation.

Officers also issued nine warnings and five Traffic Offence Reports to off-roaders riding illegally on common land in Torfaen, Caerphilly, Ebbw Vale and the Brecon Beacons National Park.

The operation, which took place over two months with support from local authorities, local land owners, the fire service and volunteer groups, aimed to tackle the problem off illegal off-roading, which causes significant environmental damage, destroys habitats, threatens livestock and puts the public at risk.

Gwent Police Landscape’s Officer, PC Simon James explained: “Illegal off-roading can cause damage to the countryside and riders are also putting themselves and members of the public at risk of injury when they are using off-road bikes in inappropriate areas.

“We have been working hard over the last two months to educate the public about what they can do to help us as well as educate off-road drivers about where they can and cannot ride. Operations like these highlight that we will continue to target the areas that are causing us concern.

“We have been very lucky to have the support off our partners and volunteers. Including: Caerphilly County Borough Council, Torfaen County Borough Council, Brecon Beacons National Park Wardens, South Wales Fire and Rescue, Natural Resources Wales, Blaenavon World Heritage Group, Blaenavon World Heritage Environment Group Volunteers, Twmbarlwm Society Volunteers, GLASS (Green Lane Association) and local farmers in all the areas.

“Without their support, it would not have been possible to carry out operations on this scale. We will continue to send out the message that Gwent Police will not tolerate the behaviour by the people who disregard the laws and spoil the situation for the law abiding people that enjoy this activity in a legal environment.”

Councillor Lewis Jones, executive member for regeneration at Torfaen council, said: “Illegal off-roading is a problem for most local authorities across Gwent and this operation is a fantastic example of those affected joining forces to tackle it together.

“We are committed to working with Gwent Police and our partners to eradicate this behaviour across all our areas.”