A crackdown has been launched to stop off-road motorcyclists in their tracks and protect fragile wildlife habitats.

Cleveland Police, council officials and land owners have their sights set on ending illegal quad and motorbike riding over the dunes between Redcar's Coatham Sands and the South Gare breakwater.

Police officers have warned bikers that they have the power to issue on-the-spot fines and confiscate the bike or quad.

Councillor Bob Stanway, Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's cabinet member for environmental improvement, said: "Damage to this area - designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest - and the type of damage caused by off-roaders can carry a fine of up to £20,000. We want to stop these dunes being worn away beyond repair."

Cleveland Police Crime Prevention Officer Jim Brown said: "We have already been out on patrol this month, issuing warnings and we are determined to take direct action in a bid to crackdown on this practice."

English Nature conservation officer Mike Leakey said: "We strongly condemn the abuse of our precious sand dune habitats and are determined to work alongside the police, the council and key landowners to prevent these activities."

Four-wheel drive vehicles and off-road bikes are destroying the habitats of birds and plants. There have been complaints from conservationists English Nature about damage being caused to an important feeding and nesting area for sea birds.