I MUST respond to your article 'Move to keep motorbikes off historic tracks' (December 12).

The so-called historic tracks are, in fact, unmade roads that have the same rights of way as other roads in this country. Therefore, motorcyclists have every right to have vehicle access so long as they are road legal and display a tax disc.

As for damaging the surface, it could be argued that by riding motorcycles along them it helps to keep them clear of bushes, bracken and other obstructions. Occasionally the Trail Riders Fellowship has given its members time and funds to repair these tracks.

Why does the Country Landowner's Association (CLA) wish to ban access to vetches from the moors? Is it simply because the CLA exists in part to kill small creatures and they would like the moors free of disturbance so small birds can nest in peace?

Robert Hawking,

Ella House,

Shipton, York.

...I SHOULD like to point out to the Country Landowners' Association (CLA) that there is only a very small percentage of tracks in this country which motorcycles are legally allowed to use.

However, walkers are allowed 100 per cent freedom on these tracks so it is time the CLA grew up and stopped being so selfish and gave a little leeway to people who like to see the countryside on wheels. It is there for everybody to enjoy.

The Trail Riders Fellowship has very strict rules about riding motorcycles in the countryside which refer to speed and courtesy. Furthermore, all bikes must have proper silencers and be taxed, tested and insured. The TRF has put a lot of time into keeping many tracks/green lanes open because members maintain them on a voluntary basis to keep them clear and passable.

Richard Carter,

Markham Street,

Haxby Road, York.

Updated: 10:02 Friday, December 19, 2003