FURTHER crackdowns of illegal off-roaders disturbing North Yorkshire communities and damaging historic green lanes are planned.

Police and officials from the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority have stopped more than 40 bikers and three 4x4 drivers so far this month.

Vehicles were checked to make sure they were road-legal.

Off-roaders were also warned to stay clear of trails without legal vehicle access.

Sergeant Steve Thornthwaite, who is overseeing the project from Settle police station, said: "There are going to be more of these operations stretching into the summer, when off-roading becomes more of a problem to us.

"We will be liaising with our colleagues in Richmond and Hawes and targeting areas where there are problems throughout the Dales."

Mark Allum, the park authority's access projects officer, said the aim of the campaign was to educate vehicle users about their rights and responsibilities when they go on to green lanes.

He said: "The main focus is to promote the message that vehicle users need to remember they are on-road, even when they are off-road."

A crackdown was held earlier this month by police, Forestry Commission staff and officers from the North York Moors National Park.

The exercise was held in the south-eastern area of the park, where the problems are most acute.

Senior ranger David Smith said: "A total of 35 motorcyclists were seen and, although many were within the law, two warning notices were issued and a further two riders were intercepted at Thornton-le-Dale car park as they were unloading their bikes.

"Five quads were also found being ridden illegally by juveniles in Harwood Dale Forest and another two being ridden illegally elsewhere.

"North Yorkshire Police were frustrated by a minority of riders who evaded their attempts to speak to them, but were pleased to be able to offer face to face advice on responsible riding.

"The day was extremely successful and we are keen to work together to organise further joint exercises in the future."

Laws being discussed by Parliament would give national park authorities the power to ban off-roaders from trails they believe are being damaged.