OFF-roaders on the Quantock Hills have been feeling the long arm of the law in a clampdown that has led to four successful prosecutions.

A joint initiative between the Quantock Hills AONB Service and Avon and Somerset police has resulted in more than £1,000 of fines being handed out to offenders caught illegally driving motorised vehicles in the nationally protected area.

Tim Russell, one of the managers in the AONB - Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - said the convictions sent out a serious message to anyone caught off-roading, which had been a serious problem for many years.

"Damage sustained to sensitive Quantock Hills habitats and public rights of way by illegal off-roading is particularly detrimental," said Mr Russell.

"Off-roading causes erosion, has an adverse effect on wildlife and greatly reduces the tranquility of this beautiful and sensitive landscape."

Under anti-social behaviour legislation, off-roading vehicles can be taken away and crushed.

Mr Russell said many of the habitats within the AONB were rare and exceptionally fragile and for this reason it was illegal to drive a motorised vehicle anywhere on the Quantocks, other than on roads, unless permission had been granted by the landowner.

He said people wanting to enjoy the views from their vehicles could use the hilltop car parks, such as Lydeard Hill, Withyman's Pool and Staple Plain.