PEAK District bosses have pledged a £100,000 cash hand-out to stop off-road vehicles ruining the National Park.

The Peak District National Park Authority has released the cash to reduce the damage caused by 4x4s and motocross bikes.

The authority hopes to repair four official off-road routes but will close a further five to vehicles.

And another 100 sites will be monitored to stop illegal use across the park.

The survey will include sections of Marsden Moor.

The scheme has been praised by countryside campaigners Friends of the Peak District.

The group’s planning officer John King said:

“Some of the most sensitive routes in the Peak District are being ruined by 4x4s and trail bikes, so it was obvious that more needed to be done.

“Our ‘Take Back the Tracks’ campaign has been calling for action so we’re really pleased to see that the park authority has taken notice and is now doing something.”