Mountain bikers using the popular Altura Trail North Loop at Whinlatter Forest could be put in significant danger by a minority of riders who have been building dangerous jumps, ramps and double-jumps.
The unofficial and dangerous modifications (pictured) were discovered by Forestry England rangers out doing safety inspections.
In addition to the significant danger to local riders using the trail legitimately under the social distancing and exercise rules, these “reckless” modifications could also put added pressure on front-line key workers, the NHS and Forestry England staff who would have to deal with any potential incidents and injuries.
Adrian Jones from Forestry England said: “We are so disappointed at a time when the country is supposed to be pulling together that people are making journeys for this reckless, irresponsible and dangerous activity. It is sad that a small number of individuals have chosen to modify the trail and put other riders at risk. Given the pressure on the emergency services at this time, this behaviour is particularly shocking.”
The trails at Whinlatter are professionally built to a very precise specification, and Mr Jones stressed: “We will not tolerate these unsafe features so they have been removed. What people are doing might also be illegal under the current rules and if anyone has any information that can stop or catch these people please report it on the Cumbrian police website or call 101.”
All car parks and visitor facilities at Whinlatter Forest are currently closed, and Forestry England is urging people to stay at home and not travel to use the forest.
Mr Jones added: “This difficult decision was taken to support social distancing, discourage unnecessary travel and keep Forestry England staff safe as they carry on managing the nation’s forests. Local people can still walk and cycle to the forest for their daily exercise but must follow government rules on social distancing and not congregate in groups of more than two people other than members of their household.”
