QUAD bikers, motorcyclists and vandals are thwarting a drive to prepare Halton's sports pitches for the new season, warn councillors.
More than £300,000 has been splashed out installing drainage and surface improvements to the pitches at Haddocks Wood and The Heath playing fields in Runcorn and King George V and Leigh Recreation Ground in Widnes.
But, 14 out of the borough's 63 pitches are unlikely to be ready for September because of reckless bikers, say councillors.
"Bike riders are just criminal for what they are doing," blasted Cllr Phil Harris, board member for sport.
"It is bad enough that these idiots career around housing illegally, but now they are also damaging valuable playing fields.
"Impounding and destroying bikes is not good enough.
"The purchasers of these bikes and irresponsible traders should be prosecuted and fined for the damage being caused to public property."
The refurbishment of Halton's playing fields is part of a £1m investment to improve facilities.
Pitches are now being watered to sustain new grass growth.
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