Net tightens on moor wreckers

Ramblers on the moors around Oldham are being urged to report fly-tipping

Vigilant country-lovers can report anti-social behaviour such as illegal off-road motor-cycling and fly-tipping on Oldham’s moors via a new website.

The Moorwatch website (www.moorwatch.com) allows anyone to report something suspicious or illegal using an interactive map of the South Pennines, including Oldham and Rochdale.

It has been launched by Pennine Prospects, the company set up five years ago to support the regeneration of the area by local authorities, including Oldham, the National Farmers Union, water and rail companies and the National Trust.

Reports will be monitored by the relevant police service and local authorities to build up a picture of where problems are occurring and to take any necessary action.

The idea came from similar schemes in North Yorkshire and Derbyshire, publicising the Crimestoppers number, (0800-555111) but the South Pennines scheme goes further by also using the website.

It is aimed at illegal off-road motor-cycling on sensitive habitats, and a range of anti-social behaviour, including fly-tipping, arson and disturbing wildlife.

Almost 200 signs in key locations also warn would-be illegal off-roaders that they could be fined and their motorbikes seized.

The project has been co-ordinated by Pennine Prospects and funded by Natural England.

Pam Warhurst, chairman of Pennine Prospects, said: “This is a great new initiative designed to deal with a long-standing problem in the South Pennines.

“We are fortunate in having these spectacular moors right on our doorstep, but some people do not respect them or realise their importance.

“Moorwatch will make it easier to identify where problems occur and take action against offenders.”