Sussex Sports Clubs Warn Of Damage Caused By Off-Road Riders
Sports clubs in Sussex are warning of the safety risks and costly damage caused by off-road bikes and other vehicles being ridden across playing fields.
Cricket clubs in the county have reported damage to wickets, with riders accused of deliberately driving across cricket squares over the winter.
Clubs elsewhere in the South East have also reported problems, with football and rugby pitches left covered in deep tyre tracks and ruts.
The damage can create serious hazards for players, including an increased risk of ankle injuries.
The concerns come as police receive new powers to seize and destroy vehicles being used for anti-social behaviour.
Under the Policing and Crime Act 2026, officers can seize vehicles without first issuing a warning, while the time before a seized vehicle can be destroyed has been reduced from 14 days to seven.
The government says the changes will make it harder for offenders to repeatedly use off-road bikes, e-scooters and other vehicles to cause disruption in communities.
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