Quad bike riding yobs have “wreaked havoc” and torn up trails at a protected nature reserve destroying part of a vital habitat.

A metal gate was also removed from its hinges at Hothfield Nature Reserve, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, near Ashford.

Kent Wildlife Trust, which manages the site on behalf of Ashford Borough Council, shared pictures of the damage which shows mud trails have been churned up throughout the reserve in the days since Christmas.

Condemning the actions, a trust spokesperson said: “Someone’s quad bike has wreaked havoc on Hothfield Nature Reserve, a precious Site of Special Scientific Interest.

“They removed the gate hinges, caused criminal damage, and destroyed part of this vital habitat.

“With so much of Kent set aside for recreation, we ask everyone to respect the small spaces reserved for our wildlife.

“Let’s protect what’s left.”

The 86-acre reserve is one of Kent’s last remaining heathlands and is home to a variety of plants and wildlife - such as ground-nesting birds and other bird species such as yellowhammers, white throat and willow warblers.

Wet bogs throughout the site are also home to a collection of rare plants, many of which are unique to Hothfield.

Ranger Will Glasson has reported ongoing issues with quad bikers since before Christmas.

Several incidents of criminal damage and damage to Hothfield Heathlands have been reported to police.

The gate repair will cost about £100 but the trust says the damage to wildlife is “severe” and will need ongoing restoration.

Further information about the time the incident occurred and a vehicle description has not yet been revealed.