Farmers living in and around the Blaenavon World Heritage Site have voiced concerns over rapidly escalating damage and disturbance to local common land caused by illegal off-roaders. The damage to areas of the heritage site including Coity, Mynydd and Milfraen is mirrored on the other side of the valley, and is caused by the illegal use of four-by-four vehicles and scrambler bikes which erode the ground and disturb grazing livestock. These bikes also destroy vulnerable habitats including that of the ground nesting Lapwing which is a protected species and listed as a species of principal importance for Wales. Anita Banks, a town councillor for Nantyglo and Blaina has spoken out on behalf of farmers in the area, about the struggles many are having due to this illegal activity affecting their livelihood. Anita said, "When I speak of 'the farmers' I speak of men and women who are as a family to each other, depending on each other from time to time, coming together in times of need.  "They have watched and worked with their fathers and grandfathers to learn the skills of farming and tending the hills, they have attended agricultural colleges, they still attend courses to further their knowledge and abilities - we are talking of their jobs being on the line!  "These farmers have contributed to the economy for many, many years and they should be allowed to follow their chosen profession just as you or I have. "The scarring to the land of the tracks and ruts caused by the illegal activities will take years to recover and will need careful monitoring and attention." In a letter to councillors across the area spoke of a farmer, who had been gathering lambs on the mountain to earmark them for the year. He came upon an off-road bike rider who deliberately stopped by the farmer, revved his engine and covered him with muck and water as he walked past. Following this, seven off-road bikers drove through the middle of the flock. Councillor Banks said, "How on earth are these farmers to continue their daily life under just two of the circumstances I have just outlined?" In addition to this, she also raised the topic of agricultural study, and stated that the Mynydd Milfraen lower area contains a peat bog which is of key scientific interest which could be lost if this off-roading continues. Fellow residents, farmers, landowners and councillors have come forward to voice their concerns on the issue. Councillor David McCloy, who maintains some of the land at the site said, "This is integral land with a vast history, and we are just stuck watching it be ruined by this illegal activity. We have tried approaching the police, but we are having very little luck with them, and something needs to be done. "This land is rich in local history which is getting ruined, and in the process is destroying the livelihoods of all who put their time and work into retaining it and grazing their animals on it." He also expressed concern at the intimidation that many walkers and commoners are receiving from the offenders. Mr McCloy said, "My wife was walking her dog one day when out of nowhere around seven bikers with helmets on swarmed up to her. She was very afraid, and this is deterring people from walking up there. "It's getting to a point where people will not want to take care of this area anymore because of the hassle, and we will lose such an important historical site. It will become overgrown at risk of wildfires, so something needs to be done to stop this." Mr Courtney Rees, who has personally experienced similar trouble, has also spoken out about his fears if action is not taken. Mr Rees said, 'This is affecting our money, this area is our life and we cannot have it abused in this way. We need as many people as possible to take note of what is happening and stand up against it." These concerns have been echoed by staff at the World Heritage Site, who are urging people to contact the authorities if they see any illegal action taking place. A spokesperson said, "The prime aim of the Blaenavon World Heritage Site Partnership is to protect this cultural landscape so that future generations may understand the outstanding contribution South Wales made to the Industrial Revolution. "Illegal off-roading has reached a level where it threatens the centuries-old practice of farmers turning stock out onto the hills. In the absence of grazing, open landscapes will rapidly scrub over. Archaeological features will no longer be visible, access will become difficult, valuable habitats will be lost and the wildfire risk will increase."

Councillor Banks has since taken her concerns to Alun Davies AM and she is currently waiting for a meeting to be arranged with local Police Inspectors. She has also sent a letter of plea to members of Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen councils for help in this work. I an impassioned letter to councillors, Councillor Banks said, "The farmers wish to request a meeting with the councillors from the areas concerned and would welcome a joint meeting with councillors from Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen. "A site meeting would be very beneficial so that you may witness the devastation and gain more information. We will arrange transport to the 'site' albeit by tractor!" If you want to help the group make their case for action to be taken on this issue, contact Anita on [email protected]">[email protected] If you have information that will help identify anyone engaging in this illegal activity please contact the police by calling 101.