Cumbria dunes damaged by 'mindless vandalism'

The dunes are being damaged and rare wildlife put at risk by vehicles

Nature lovers have been asked to help protect part of the Cumbrian coast from "mindless vandalism".

There have been a number of reports of people driving over the Mawbray Banks Dunes near Silloth in four wheel drives, motorbikes and quad bikes.

This has been causing damage to the Site of Special Scientific Interest, home to one of the UK's most rare amphibians, the natterjack toad.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Cumbria Police.

Councillor Sam Standage, Allerdale Borough Council's executive member with responsibility for the Solway Coast, said: "Such acts of mindless vandalism are ruining the enjoyment of the Mawbray Banks Dunes for everyone.

"This area is supposed to be a pleasant place for people to relax and appreciate the beauty of wildlife in its natural habitat.

"To see it being destroyed in this way by a selfish few is just heartbreaking."