National Trust clamps down on rogue cyclists!
This is the last time the kids will be able to ride their bikes at Gibside. I admit the look likely to cause problems with the natural environment but due to a new rule (possibly made up on the spot) children on bicycles are now banned from riding their bikes at Gibside.

No matter that it was quiet, they have reasonable bikes and they don't deliberately go out to drive into anyone, we have officially been told by a man driving a tractor (who is causing the damage here...run that one past me again), that our children cannot ride bikes, even on the paths, as cycles could damage the environment.

They didn't even pull the 'health and safety' argument. The main concern was that they might ride their bikes on the grass. This was one of the few safe, traffic free places we could take them while they get used to riding in a straight line. The local cycle paths tend to be full of manic mountain bikers who do about 40mph and refuse to stop for anyone.

Jason did try to point out that driving the NT landrover and tractor and various quad bikes would be more damaging...but who are we to argue against the rules. One day when I get myself a guide dog and a disabled buggy I will deliberately go wild!!!!!!! There are laws to protect me then. Hmmph