Quad bikers and horse riders warned to stay away from Black Country beauty spot

The Friends of Queslett Nature Reserve in Great Barr say the issue has come to a head following complaints.

Group members say they fear problems could escalate and it is only a matter of time before someone is hurt.

Chairman Keith Linnecor said: "The Queslett Nature Reserve is what it says on the tin - a nature reserve.

"It is not a park, it is a wild area meant to be enjoyed by users on foot or push bike and to encourage wildlife.

"Motorbikes, quad bikes and horses are not suitable given the nature of the paths which are often obscured by bends and dips in the ground.

"Those out walking in the reserve could be at risk from those using motorised vehicles and the Friends of Queslett Nature Reserve would ask anyone thinking of using motorised vehicles or horses to find other places to do so."

He said notices warning motorbike riders of the danger they pose will be going up around the reserve.

The ranger service had also been made aware of the issue, he added.

No mechanical vehicles are allowed on the reserve and the group has received support from the police in its bid to stop people ignoring the rules.

Councillor Linnecor added: "If a rider has an accident it would be very difficult for emergency services to get to them and if an elderly person is walking, a quad bike rider might not see them until the last minute."

He added: "We are not trying to be kill joys but we have to think of the safety of all our visitors and we fear that someone will get hurt.

"We have been very lucky that so far there has not been any serious accidents but we want to stop it now or it will only be a matter of time."

Councillor Linnecor is also warning visitors of the dangers of the lake at the nature reserve.

He said: "It is very unsafe to swim in the lake and we advise keeping dogs out of the water too because we do not know what is at the bottom."

West Midlands Police will be taking action against anyone who rides horses or vehicles in the area.

Anyone who spots a quad bike or horse on the reserve is urged to call the park ranger service on 0121 552 4214.