WARNINGS have been issued to three motorbike users for illegally taking their vehicles onto the Flappit Quarry site, near Cullingworth.

The police issued the warnings last Sunday afternoon (August 23) after catching the riders during a random check of the area.

A spokesman for West Yorkshire Police said: "Although there have been signs of recent motorbike use at the site, it is much less than has been seen in the past.

"However, our officers located three riders at the quarry on one of their visits during the afternoon of Sunday Aug 23.

"The group had not been there very long and had used a van to get their bikes there.

"Checks were made with them and their bikes on the Police National Computer, resulting in section 59 warnings being issued.

"These will last for 12 months and result in vehicle seizure if they are breached.

"The riders were already known to police for antisocial behaviour vehicle use, so this is an opportunity for them to change their ways.

"This area has been in the spotlight for a number of years now, with riders from across Yorkshire turning up to ride here.

"Although there are a number of opinions on whether bikers should be allowed to use it or not, the fact remains that this is private land and the owners have given no permission for any leisure activities, including off road vehicle use.

"Whatever people's thoughts are on the issue, the landowner’s wishes should be respected. Other off road sites are available for people's leisure activities.”