A FARMER fears motocross bikers could be a threat to the Wyre Forest after a popular circuit shut down.

Norman Amies, who runs Merridale Farm at Button Oak, said Bridgnorth District Council's request to close the track there due to noise complaints might send bikers onto sites in the forest and on nature reserves.

He said: "The forest has been used before by bikers. The farm is the place to come if you want to learn how to ride or get some practice - now it has gone there could be more who will ride illegally. British Enduro Champion Chris Tett with farmer Norman Amies.

"There have been bikers on the Rifle Range at Kidderminster - it shows what happens when there isn't a proper track available."

Mr Amies' views were echoed by current British Enduro Champion Chris Tett, of Birmingham, who learnt to ride at the course.

He said: "There are only two or three other sites in the West Midlands. Illegal riding is always a problem and it creates a danger to themselves, the public and the land. Most of all it is bad for the sport.

"The track is highly valued by many people. It is very natural."

The council contacted Mr Amies after receiving three complaints about noise from the circuit on land at the farm.

A spokeswoman said an agreement would need to be reached with the farmer, who has run the course for 27 years, about what levels of noise are acceptable if it was to re-open.

She added failure to do so could result in the park being forcibly shut down.

However, Mr Amies said he was not optimistic about his chances of success.

He said: "Some people think country life is always quiet - that is not the case."