NATIONAL park rangers are to work alongside police to tackle the problem of illegal off-road driving in the Yorkshire dales.

And those who flout the law risk having their vehicles confiscated under new legislation.

A flood of complaints from people in the Richmondshire area of the park concerning irresponsible use of vehicles has prompted the move.

Motorcycles have been seen leaving public rights of way and damaging surrounding land and disturbing stock in the Hawes and Bainbridge areas. Joint patrols have also stopped and warned trailbike riders.

Police issued warnings to the owners of several off-road motorcycles being ridden irresponsibly near Semerwater.

Jon Avison, head of park management at the Yorkshire Dales National Park, said: "The use of off-road vehicles in the countryside is one of the most contentious recreational issues facing the authority. We receive more correspondence on this matter than any other recreational pursuit.

"The majority of visitors come to the national park to experience the special qualities of the area and to get away from the hurly-burly of everyday life. Illegal vehicular use can impinge on this.

"One of the constants of everyday life is traffic and the noise, intrusion and stress this brings. We believe there should be areas where people can get away from it all and experience the peace and tranquillity of the countryside. The presence of recreational off-road vehicles in the dales precludes this happening in many cases.

"The environmental damage caused by vehicles attempting to traverse sensitive habitats such as peat moorland can be severe, causing irrevocable damage and unsightly ruts."

Rangers and police regularly patrol areas where the latest incidents are reported.

PC Dave Cousins, of North Yorkshire police, said: "We are not opposed to the lawful and responsible use of off-road vehicles. But action is now being taken against those who use their vehicles in an antisocial or careless manner, or in places where vehicles are not permitted.

"This includes bridleways and footpaths, common land, and private land where the express permission of the landowner has not been obtained.

"This action is being taken due to the volume of complaints I have received regarding damage and nuisance in the national park, caused by off-road vehicles. Offenders risk substantial fines, and under new legislation introduced by the Government, they risk having their vehicles confiscated.