OFF-ROAD vehicles such as 4x4s and quad bikes should be banned from travelling on unsurfaced rights of way, say campaigners.

Essex Area Ramblers (RA) is calling on the Government to change the law on off-roading, which it claims is damaging the green lanes and causing distress to people who use them for walking and rambling.

RA spokesman Len Banister said: "We are campaigning for a ban not on off-road vehicles, but on their use on rights of way that were simply never intended for this type of vehicle."

Mr Banister, of Gordon Avenue, Highams Park, added: "There is considerable public concern about behaviour that causes distress to those seeking quiet enjoyment of the countryside."

The RA claims the unsuitable use of the rights of way (classified as byways open to all traffic) shatters the peace of the countryside, and brings pollution, noise and increased danger to walkers, cyclists and horse riders.

A Government consultation to look into concerns surrounding damage caused on rights of way has been welcomed by the RA.

Mr Banister said: "The upsurge in use of green lanes by off-roaders makes it ever more urgent that action is taken immediately."