As you are probably aware, the illegal riding of motorbikes in the woods has been prominent in the press lately. Poor illegal motorbikers, they only want a "bit of land somewhere".
Setting aside Forestry Commission land for illegal motorcyclists is a cop-out. Forestry Commission land is just that: land that belongs to the Forestry Commission – not to people with motorbikes! The Forestry Commission owns the land: they make the rules! So, by definition, illegal motorcyclists are committing an offence. Give in to them and you might as well turn a blind eye to any illegal activity. Why can't I drive my bulldozer around Beechenhurst? Set some land aside for me and other bulldozer enthusiasts. Indeed, why not set land aside for everybody to do just what they like?
Surely rules and laws are for the common good, and without enforcing them then anarchy reigns. The Forest is a rare and precious thing: it's about time vigorous action was taken to control every minority interest group that wants to "do" the Forest.
Some say that people have always ridden motorbikes in the woods; true, but it doesn't make it right. Let us adopt as a Forest anthem: "Let's make illegal this that an' t'other, history". Perhaps The Edge End, of Ewe2, could write the music?
Incidentally, I saw two police officers on motorbikes in the woods yesterday whilst I was fly-tipping. Even they're at it, now. I arskes yer, it's a bloomin' cheek!! – Name and address supplied.