[Offroading and fighting a losing battle]

From bitter experience in the Yorkshire Dales NP I'd suggest that the last thing you want to do is start pointing out lanes that need repair or a temporary closure. It won't take very long at all for someone to use that as "evidence" that the lane should be closed for good.

For decades we've been pussy footing around limiting numbers in groups, following codes of conduct, worrying about possible damage to lanes etc... and what has it achieved ? It's achieved absolutely b***er all. In return for our efforts we've been handed down closures and nothing in the way of compromise. The ramblers and mountain bikes have destroyed a path, no worries, we'll helicopter in supplies to repair it so they don't get their feet muddy. A 4x4 has left a tyre print, no problem, close the road.

Frankly I no longer give a f**k what impression I give to other RoW users because those other users stopped worrying about my rights years ago. Nothing we can do will stop lanes being closed and nothing we can do will keep them open. LARA tried their best but sadly our other representative groups were far too busy threatening each other with legal action to focus on doing anything to fight closures. I'm always polite to other RoW users but I don't worry myself about their view on whether or not I should be there any more.

If a route is drivable, even if that means using a winch, drive it and enjoy it while you can. If other users get aggro ignore them or film them and post them on youtube so everyone can see how they behave.

I agree mate over the years iv'e bean into motor cross,enduro motorbikes,4x4,shooting etc and they have all had negative responses...no matter how polite you are to people,if they don't like what your doing they will cause problems,as you say we've pussy footed round people trying not to upset them but it makes not a blind bit of difference, so use the lanes while you can

[Reputable Mechanic Sheffield/Rotherham area]

LOOK NO FURTHER PEEPS where abouts in sheffield are you,i own a mot testing station and mechanical repairs including all your welding needs.I am currently in the process of sorting a discovery 1 300 tdi out for off roading so am not affraid to get stuck in to the narly stuff that most garages dont want to do cus it doesn't earn them enough any ways if i can help you let me know