CYCLISTS have hit back at claims that they acted in a threatening manner on a popular Worcestershire landmark. 

It follows an incident where councillor Paul Bennett said he was threatened and abused on the Malvern Hills after telling three mountain bikers they could not cycle on British Camp.

However, the three have now lodged a formal complaint with Malvern Hills District Council over his conduct after claiming they did not ride their bikes on the protected fort and he was rude to them.

A spokesperson for Malvern Hills District Council said they cannot make any statement until its review and investigation are complete.

Cllr Bennett, who is a Malvern Hill district councillor, has claimed the investigation has closed but MHDC has denied this.

Dr Chris Slinger, one of the cyclists, said: "Firstly, as one of those accused cyclists, I can state that we were not riding our bikes when we met Bennett. 

"We'd ridden our bikes to the Hills.

"The three of us meet up as friends and walked the bikes onto the fort before sitting down for a chat and admiring the view on the beautiful afternoon.

"It was at this stage that Cllr Bennett accosted us from behind and above. He let loose a tirade of abuse."

Mr Slinger added the group had repeatedly told Cllr Bennett they had done nothing wrong and to leave them alone, which escalated the situation and led to shouting from both parties.

"He subsequently claimed we abused him whilst riding our bikes," he added.

However, Cllr Bennet denied these claims and said he simply told them something they might not have known, as there is no signage telling people they can't ride their bikes on British Camp. 

Cllr Bennett said he had phoned the police to inform them of the incident after he claimed he was threatened and abused.

The incident took place on British Camp at around 4.45pm on August 18.

"Cyclists are normally careful, courteous and good people to be around," said Cllr Bennet.

"Almost all keep to the designated bridleways and tracks on the Malvern Hills and those who are on the ancient monument usually behave reasonably when told it is a protected site.

"I represent a ward that actually pays for the upkeep of the Malvern Hills and British Camp by way of a precept added to the Council Tax.

"No one should pay to repair damage that can be avoided."

West Mercia Police said it will be increasing its patrols on British Camp following the incident.