Dover and Deal MP Charlie Elphicke will raise the problem of 4X4 vehicles churning up rights of way with Environment Secretary Elizabeth Truss.

This follows the MP donning his Wellington boots and visiting a right of way in the Dover area with members of the White Cliffs Ramblers, the south Kent branch of The Ramblers, to see the damage done by off road vehicles.

This right of way, between Guston and Pineham, is a BOAT (Byway Open To All Traffic) and is part of the North Downs Way, the only National Trail in Kent.

The damage has caused deep ruts which fill with water during heavy rain, making it very difficult for walkers to use. Earlier this year the county council closed the byway to allow it to properly dry out. It was re-opened last week, but there are still deep ruts along some parts of it, making access for walkers very difficult and almost impassable in places.

On Saturday’s visit Mr Elphicke was accompanied by members of the White Cliffs Ramblers, including chairman Margaret Lubbock and secretary Averil Brice.

Afterwards the MP said he agreed with The Ramblers’ call for traffic to be banned from BOATs, said he would back calls for the government to set up a working party to look at the problem nationally and promised to raise the issue with Elizabeth Truss, Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

He said: “I am shocked to see the damage done by irresponsible four-wheel drivers to local byways.

Byways are not for cars to churn up irresponsibly.

“You can see how deep the ruts are. They fill with water and ruin the enjoyment of dog walkers, ramblers and cyclists. It seems to me the rules on byways open to all traffic –BOATs – need to change.”

White Cliffs Ramblers chairman Margaret Lubbock said: “The problem has become worse in our area, certainly in the last 10 years. Off road vehicles have proliferated and spoilt the North Downs Way for all other users. The use of 4X4s on this and other similar BOATs means all other users are denied their freedom to use them because of the state of the ground.

“Something must be done – hopefully by closing the BOATs to vehicles, with exceptions for maintenance vehicles etc. We are very grateful Mr Elphicke actually came and saw the terrible condition of the BOAT for himself.”

Group secretary Averil Brice, who last year pressed the county council into closing the right of way at Guston to allow it to dry out, said: “The off road clubs need to know that damage like this is risking the loss of byways for all drivers. The drivers who are causing the damage are clearly there for the thrill of handling their vehicles in difficult circumstances, not to enjoy nature.

“Let’s hope Mr Elphicke’s visit will lead to more action. If only everybody contacted their MPs when they have an issue with BOATs, and invited them put on their boots and to take a look.”