WALKERS are being scared off from using Outwood's £2.5 million Country Park because of irresponsible horse riders and motorcyclists, it has been claimed.

Ms Tracey Waddington (38) of Grosvenor Street, Radcliffe, has now stopped using it because she fears for her safety.

"Some horse riders do not always use the bridleway and it can be pretty frightening when a horse comes racing towards you," she said.

"I used to walk my dog, Jesse, there all the time, but these days I'd rather walk by the canal. It's far safer."

She added: "Young mums pushing prams along the path should be worried too, but it's not just horses that are a danger as bicycles can be just as bad. In fact, they could be worse as you don't always hear them. And some people take their motorbikes there too.

"It seems such a shame that after spending so much money on it, pedestrians can't relax and enjoy walking in the park."

A spokesman for Bury Council said there are plans to erect signs warning people that motorcycles are not allowed.

He added: "The problem is that the trail is so accessible so there is a fundamental dilemma. Because we have made it accessible for wheelchair users, this means that motorcyclists can get to it too."