NUISANCE motorbikes are posing a threat to horses and their riders according to residents in Clapton-in-Gordano.

Police are expected to clamp down on antisocial motorcyclists after receiving a string of complaints last weekend, from anxious horse owners who experienced motorbikes being driven irresponsibly along country lanes, bridle paths and in other open spaces.

Farmer’s wife Sally Letts, who runs a bed and breakfast at Sperrings Farm in Clapton says the rise in antisocial bike riding has caused alarm among horse riders in the area.

Mrs Letts who is on the committee of the Black Horse Riding Club said: “Some people seem to think it is acceptable to ride motorbikes along bridleways and footpaths, but this is illegal and downright dangerous.

“In addition to this, general inconsideration by some motorbike riders driving in and around our village is causing grave concern among residents.

“If horses get spooked by an unexpected motorbike it can have very serious consequences.”

A farmer who did not want to be named said there has also been a dramatic increase in off-road bikes being ridden in the woods which is worrying people living in the Clapton area.

A police spokesman confirmed that riding motorbikes on footpaths or along bridle paths is both against the law and antisocial.

He said: “The paths are protected so people can walk and ride their horses in safety. The police are aware of recent incidents in the Clevedon Lane and Caswell Lane areas of Clapton in Gordano and beat officers will be giving the matter extra attention.”

Anyone with information about these incidents should contact Nailsea police on 0845 4567000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.