Warning after bike trail is vandalised

Warning after bike trail is vandalised

22 March 2017

A MOUNTAIN biker has branded as idiots those responsible for placing large boulders across a fast section of a popular cycle trail in Newcastle’s Donard Forest.

Craig Nelson was riding along one of the unofficial trails in the area last week and had just reached the bottom of a fast run when he was confronted by the boulders which had been dragged across the track.

Admitting he “almost came a cropper,” Craig subsequently posted a warning on social media for other cyclists to be wary when riding in Donard Wood.

Craig said while he wasn’t seriously hurt after the popular trail had been sabotaged, he fears it could only be a matter of time before those responsible hurt a rider.

“I saw the obstruction coming but anyone who knows this section of track knows you leave one corner before approaching an area beside a small rock garden at speed and it is hard to slow down,” he explained. “Whoever was responsible for this managed to move some serious rocks and were clearly intending to do some damage to riders and their bikes. They are idiots.

“Boulders and logs have been placed across multiple sections of the trail and while I was lucky and escaped with a few cuts and bruises, an inexperienced rider may not have been so fortunate.”

Craig believes the decision to place the boulders at a bottom section of a trail which riders approach relatively quickly was clearly designed to injure.

“We all take risks when riding these trails, but they are calculated risks and we don’t expect to come across anything like this,” he continued. “An inexperienced rider could have been seriously injured but the sad thing is that it’s not the first time boulders and logs have been placed along the trails.

“What happened was quite frightening and while I usually ride on my own I did not have time to inspect the trail before I got on my bike. What happened will certainly make me a little more cautious while in Donard Wood.”

Craig admitted he will also be taking it a little easier along this particular stretch, explaining while many riders like to push the limits all the time, there will be a need to exercise caution from now on.

He added: “The bottom line is that if this behaviour continues, someone is going to get hurt. The trails have been sabotaged before and while it would hard to prove, there is suspicion it is the same people involved which is sad.”

Newcastle councillor, Willie Clarke, has condemned those responsible for blocking the cycle path with the boulders and said it is “extremely fortunate” the rider was not seriously injured.

“This is a very popular attraction with people from all over coming to Newcastle to use it,” he declared. “The last thing we need is for those who should know better putting boulders in the way of riders. This behaviour is completely irresponsible and could lead to serious injuries to users.”

Councillor Clarke said while the Donard Wood trails are unofficial, they are designed and created by local people and are well used.

He continued: “It’s a sad and sorry state of affairs when we need to remind those riding in Donard Forest to be vigilant and take extra care as somebody is again laying traps for cyclists, with logs and boulders deliberately ped across the trails.

“My appeal to those who use these trails is to take extra care, especially early in the morning or when riding in the evening. Those responsible for these obstacles need to reflect on the dangers that could materialise from their actions.”

Councillor Clarke added: “I am urging those responsible for sabotaging the trails to to desist from such dangerous actions.”