PLANS to create a mountain bike trail on Otley Chevin 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 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 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 and 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. We will, of course, report anyone we suspect of these acts to the police.

"This inappropriate activity in no way is going to stop or influence the proposed creation of a suitable mountain bike trail."

Cllr Campbell added: "The Chevin is an asset for all to use and, though a small number of cyclists, dog walkers and ramblers behave inappropriately, it is not a reason for people to take matters into their own hands and try to stop residents using this public resource.

"I would urge everyone to think of others when they are using the Chevin and, if anyone sees inappropriate or dangerous behaviour, to report it."

Pool-in-Wharfedale Parish Council chairman, Cllr Hazel Lee, added: "Dog walkers have been coming to to tell me about these obstacles.

"Whoever is doing it has been putting branches and stones across the footpaths and putting posters up on trees saying 'No Bikes'.

"It's making it quite dangerous for people to walk on the paths, especially early in the morning. Some dog walkers are removing the obstacles but they keep being put back."