'Joy riders' damaging protected areas in the Quantock Hills

Dead Woman's Ditch is one of four areas affected by off-roading

An area of Somerset's Quantock Hills is being damaged by "joy riding" and off-road parking, according to the team looking after the land.

Quantock Common is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

Iain Porter, Quantock Hills National Landscape Manager, said: "We really want to draw attention to the fact parking on the verges is really damaging to the rare plants and wildlife of the Quantock Hills, especially at this time of year."

The area is highly sensitive and vulnerable to tyre damage and pollution, which can lead to severe erosion and permanent loss of species, he added.

The problem has been growing in recent years say the custodians of the land

As well as heathland plants, rare boggy areas known as acid flushes have developed at the sources of the springs.

The habitat supports a diverse range of plants that are scarce locally.

Talks are now being had to install stone boulders to protect these areas from further off-roading, including at Dead Woman's Ditch.

'Report anything suspicious'

The Quantock Hills National Landscape Partnership, which includes landowners, Natural England, and other local organisations is reminding drivers to only park in designated car parks.

People who drive off road without permission could face a fine or prison sentence.

Mr Porter added: There are plenty of car parking areas with hard surfaces, so please do stick to those."

John Andrews, Chair of Friends of the Quantocks, said: "It is upsetting to see the damage caused by senseless actions of a few.” 

People are being encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the Quantock Hills National Landscape Partnership.