Ex-Welsh Secretary was not obstructing Caerphilly cycle path

A former cabinet minister has said hidden camera footage of him apparently blocking a trail on Caerphilly Mountain with rocks and logs actually shows him “removing” the debris to help walkers.

Ron Davies, a former Labour Secretary of State for Wales, told Nicky Campbell the area was "enormously attractive" but had been "trashed" by some people.

It follows a row over how mountain bikers use the area, which is close to Mr Davies home. The mountain bikers group Van Road Mountain Bikers had said his actions were putting people in danger.

"I've never blocked or obstructed a footpath in my life," he said. “This year we’ve seen it trashed by an uncaring, selfish minority of people who are doing an enormous damage and putting people at risk.”

Mr Davies said he thought the rocks may have been put there as an attempt by owners of the land, Natural Resources Wales, to combat a “small minority” of mountain bikers who “go charging round”, causing damage to the trail.

This clip is originally from 5 Live Breakfast on Thursday 22 September 2016.

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