Motorists in Sidmouth are being warned to stick to public roads after reports some drivers are taking extreme measures to avoid traffic and roadworks.

After reports of drivers using country lanes unsafely and in some cases using public footpaths and bridleways, Devon and Cornwall Police have issued a community alert.

A police spokesperson said: "Increasingly as the roads become busier and roadworks slow the pace of travel down reports have been received that some drivers are taking to using byways as alternative routes.

"If you use the byways please make sure that you are using them safely and lawfully and remember that they are open to use to people on foot, horseback, bicycle or vehicle including horse-drawn carriage, motorcycle or other motor vehicle.

"Do not mistake any other form of track or path as a byway as it is a criminal offence to ride/drive a motor vehicle on any public right of way other than a road, byway or approved track."

"If persons are caught riding or driving a motor vehicle on a public footpath or bridleway they will be issued with a warning for using a vehicle in an anti-social manner."

How to tell the difference between the different types of public rights of way:

-Public Footpath - foot only.

-Public Bridleway - foot, horseback or bicycle.

-Public Restricted Byway - foot, horseback, bicycle or horse-drawn carriage.

-Public Byway - foot, horseback, bicycle or vehicle including horse-drawn carriage, motorcycle or other motor vehicle.

If you have any information or concerns please email [email protected].