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Easter Ross motocross operator stands firm on anonymous letters complaining about noise


By Louise Glen

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Peter Mackenzie has received anonymous letters complaining about the motocross track. Here, a young visitor tries out one one of the jumps. Picture: James Mackenzie
Peter Mackenzie has received anonymous letters complaining about the motocross track. Here, a young visitor tries out one one of the jumps. Picture: James Mackenzie

THE operator of an Easter Ross motocross track says anonymous letters complaining about the noise will not stop him.

Peter Mackenzie of Tain Motorcross Track, also known as the Easter Ross Motocycle Club, wants objectors to the long-standing facility to speak to him directly.

He made his comments after receiving two anonymous letters raising concerns about the track at Balnagall Farm – slamming the “local coward” unwilling to put a name to the missive.

One of the letters, shared publicly by Mr Mackenzie (46), states: “I’m writing, basically on behalf of the good people of the following communities who are totally fed up with the dreadful noise of the motorbikes.”

Those listed include Tain East, Sommerville, Newton, Inver and Arbol. It said: “You are destroying the Highland countryside as we known it – merely for you to make a few bucks more. What on earth were you thinking, bringing people from all over the UK and making us suffer? People can’t go out in their gardens without hearing the roar of bikes. Please consider the communities in question as no one wants to speak out as most people know yourself and Linda, so they won’t say anything to you. Please – in the name of quietness and our peaceful communities – do something about it.”

The letter was signed “a community member on behalf of many”.

Mr Mackenzie said: “The track has been here for 20 years so I have no intention of closing it because of a few individuals complaining about a bit of noise.

“Over the years it has grown into a place where people are out in the countryside, and not sitting at home on a games console. I do it because motocross is good for people and when you see the kids’ faces, it makes it all worthwhile.

Referring to the noise, he said: “We live next to a military area where low-flying jets bomb most weeks.

“The track brings much-needed money into the local area.

“I want people to come to me directly to raise concerns. I have always had an honest approach to the track, and that remains the case. To the person sending the anonymous letters, come and see me. We can talk this through.”

The letter has been shared more than 500 times and prompted hundreds of comments on the motocross track Facebook page.

Rachel Ross stated: “I think it’s a brilliant track, loved going and watching the bikes race, isn’t that noisy either, just bored people with nothing better to do with their lives.”

Kevin Murray said: “It’s unfortunate they have little or no comprehension of the positive impact and reach you have!”

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