A COUNCIL has asked cyclists to keep off paths in Hockley Woods after booby traps were set.

One cyclist was hospitalised with concussion after riding round a blind bend and into a trap recently.

The cyclist’s father, Paul Bateman, of Hawkwell, a keen mountain biker himself, has spoken out against whoever is responsible for the traps – which include logs rolled into the middle of the path and branches tied to trees to act as a barrier.

A spokesman for Rochford District Council said: “Rochford District Council undertakes regular patrols of all the district's woods.

“The main thoroughfares and paths are made with the purpose of ensuring safety for residents so everyone can enjoy these areas.

“We would like to remind cyclists that cycling is not permitted in the woods, and take this opportunity to direct them to more appropriate locations such as the tailor-made mountain bike tracks at Hadleigh.

“Anyone who comes across any area of woodland that they believe may prove unsafe for others, are asked to report their concerns to our Customer Services team.

“The information can then be passed to the right officers who will assess and act on the details as necessary.”