THE PSNI is investigating after a dozen quad bike maniacs took over a country park in Derry at the weekend.
Vans driven by adults brought young children and teenagers into Ballyarnett Country Park on Sunday.
Terrified cyclists and walkers were forced to leave the area.
The PSNI – which issued a pre-Christmas plea to parents not to buy quad bikes for their children for Christmas – is now investigating the incidents.
Quad bikes are banned from the park which attracts growing numbers of local people and tourists.
“The quads were tearing up the greens making it a mud bath,” said one eye-witness.
“Some of the adults were standing behind little kids on the quads and I was forced to the edge of the path as they raced past me with no consideration for me or my two dogs who were barking and scared.”
Someone is going to get killed
She added: “The park is ruined and the council are allowing this to happen some one is going to be killed or really hurt this can not be allowed to continue.
“I walk there daily and love the beautiful park. Many people I know walk there with the kids or animals.
“There’s also a pony club there and old people going for a quiet stroll have had to stop going as there are kids and adults tearing up the greens and they don’t slow down when they are approaching you.
“They wouldn’t get away with this in St Columb’s Park so why should they get away with it in Ballyarnett?”
Actions condemned
Local MLA Pat Ramsey has condemned the behaviour of the deranged parents and their children behind the weekend of mayhem.
“It’s just not fair,” said Mr Ramsey.
“People who own such vehicles must not endanger other people.”
