A motorcycling curate has amassed an 800-signature petition to save a threatened bike-scrambling site.

The Reverend Chris Andrews and fellow bikers fear the proposed axing of a parking area at Flappit, between Denholme and Cullingworth, could signal the end of their sport at the spot.

Scrambling has gone on at the famous site for half-a-century despite its common land status which, by law, makes it out of bounds for motorcycles.

Earlier this month the Telegraph & Argus revealed Bradford Council planners proposed to permanently close the lay-by, where hundreds of bikers park their trailers next to the old quarry.

Officers said it was necessary for the safety of bikers while part of the quarry was re-filled and that there were complaints about fly-tipping at the site.

But protesters fear a danger to bikers who, determined to use the site, would have to park opposite on the A629 Halifax Road and risk crossing the busy carriageway which has a blind bend.

Now Mr Andrew has submitted his petition to Bradford Metro Council via Cullingworth parish council, which backed his campaign. And he and fellow bikers are raising cash to clear rubbish from the lay-by and look at the cost of installing CCTV to deter fly-tippers.

"We are putting our money where our mouth is," he said. "We are determined to do all we can to save this site which is ideal for off-roading because of the varied terrain. We have had support from all three ward councillors and we're extremely grateful."

Operator Dennis Gillson and Son has applied to re-fill a section of the quarry, away from the biking area and is not opposed to the off-roaders.

Cullingworth parish council chairman Bryan Hobson said if the lay-by was closed it could force bikers to ride in other parts of the district, such as on moorland. "They've been there for years and they're not doing anyone any harm," he said.

"We would like to see it become a more official site and have the lay-by covered and tidied up."

A Council spokesman said the application to restore the quarry was still being considered: "There are a number of complicated legal issues involved and because of this, we are unable to comment any further."