PLANS to create a mountain bike trail are to proceed - despite the actions of an anti-cycling 'vigilante' who has been blocking off paths.

Leeds City Council is working on routes specifically for mountain bikers in the Forest Park at Otley Chevin that would keep them at a safe distance from walkers and other users.

Currently, cyclists are allowed to use the Chevin's bridleways but in practice often also use footpaths and tracks through the woods.

The council has confirmed that someone has been repeatedly placing obstacles, including branches and large stones, across the pathways in a bid to stop bikes.

The mystery 'vigilante' has also been putting official-looking notices up on trees.

Councillor Colin Campbell (Lib Dem, Otley & Yeadon), who raised the matter with the Parks and Countryside department, was told: "These apparently deliberate acts of blocking well-used, albeit unauthorised, routes used by cyclists are known to our Estate staff.

"This is happening on the east (Danefield) side of the Chevin on footpaths and desire lines through the woods that cyclists are using regularly.

"It appears that persons unknown are trying to deter and prevent cyclists from using these routes and are making up and fixing official-looking notices and blocking the way with branches and brash.

"Our staff have identified the hotspots now and are pro-actively clearing any blockages on a daily basis whilst keeping vigilant for any information that might identify the perpetrators.

"This inappropriate activity in no way is going to stop or influence the proposed creation of a suitable mountain bike trail/trails to cater for experienced and not so experienced riders."