Plaid MS calls for police action following scrambler damage to historic monument

Plaid MS Dr. Dai Lloyd has called on South Wales Police to take action against scrambler motorbikers who are damaging a Bronze Age monument on Mynydd y Gwair, to the north of Clydach and Craig Cefn Parc.

Locals have complained that this weekend scrambler motorbikes have been damaging a Ring Cairn on Tor Clawdd. The monument comprises the remains of a ring cairn of earth and stone, which probably date to the Bronze Age (c. 2300 - 800 BC).

Scramblers are often seen at weekends travelling up through Clydach along the old tramway from Forge Fach up to the mountain areas to the north.

Now Dr. Lloyd is calling on South Wales Police, along with the local authority and Cadw, to ensure that the historical monument is protected.

Individuals can be reported to appear in court for driving without insurance or a driving licence, as well as for careless or dangerous driving, driving without due care or attention or for driving on common land.

Dr. Lloyd stated:

“It is hugely disappointing to hear reports that over the weekend bikers have been riding on the Tor Clawdd, tearing up the earth on the historic ring cairn.

“This monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of prehistoric burial and ritual practices, and it needs to be protected.”

Dr. Lloyd added:

“Unfortunately, we know that when the weather improves, there is an increase in the illegal and antisocial use of scrambler motoribikes within the city and county of Swansea – however, riding a motorbike on common land is illegal.

“These individuals are not only causing a nuisance to walkers and to upland farmers but in this instance, they are damaging a historical monument. Where is the respect?

“In the short-term, there is no doubt that we need to see police action to bring these individuals to book.

“In the long-term, I believe that Cadw along with the local authority need to look at ways in which we can protect this monument.”