Off-roaders 'risking their lives'

Mr Sargeant said he was walking through Canklow Woods when he was almost hit by two off-road bikes being ridden at around 50mph.

He is now calling for action to clamp down on the issue which he fears could end up killing someone.

Mr Sargeant (65), said: "I am not just an old man moaning because I used to be exactly the same myself when I was younger.

"But these off-road bikes are not toys. They are incredibly powerful and should be used at a proper place with marshalls and supervisors.

"The most disturbing thing is there are a lot of families and young children that use the woods and walkways around Boston Castle.

"It is only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured or killed by these lunatics."

Mr Sargeant, of Woodfoot Road, said he was walking his beagle cross-breed Monty through a walkway known as The Avenue on Monday when the motorcyclists raced through.

He said other dogwalkers that use the woods have also complained, adding: "It needs stopping. They are just being totally irresponsible.

"I reckon both of the riders were under 16-year-old and one them had two young children on the bike with them, clinging on for dear life.

"As far as I am concerned, it's down to irresponsible parents because they must know their kids are doing it."

Mr Sargeant reported the incident to South Yorkshire Police and urged other dogwalkers to do the same.

Insp Martyn Sheldon, of Rotherham Central Local Policing Team which covers Canklow, said: "We have received a report about off-road motorcycles riding in a potentially dangerous manner in the Canklow Woods area. 

"Those riding the motorcycles are potentially putting their own lives at risk, as well as the lives of others, by riding at speed and without regard for the rules of the road. Someone could be seriously injured by such reckless behaviour. 

"This will not be tolerated and we are increasing our presence in the area in a bid to identify those responsible and provide reassurance to the wider community. 

"If you have any information about nuisance motorcycles and who may be riding them in the area, please speak to your local officers or call 101."