Calls for residents to aid crackdown on “extremely dangerous” vehicles

Beds Police are encouraging people to identify nuisance motorcyclists so they can stop people who think it is acceptable to ride motorbikes, mopeds, scooters or mini-motos in a dangerous way across public land.

As the weather turns warmer, some people will break the law by riding motorbikes off-road, often without crash helmets, insurance or tax.

Inspector Jim Hitch said: “Nuisance vehicles are a blight on residents’ lives across Beds but I hope that by working together this summer we can crackdown on the numbers affecting people’s enjoyment.

“One of the issues we have is not being able to chase after every single nuisance motorcyclist but by providing information such as names, addresses or where the vehicle may have been previously, we can build up a picture of the offenders and take appropriate action.

“Riders need to realise that this sort of behaviour is unacceptable - not only is it an offence, but it is also extremely dangerous for others. These riders need to understand that if they ride their motorbike in a park or somewhere else that they shouldn’t they will receive a warning or have their motorbike seized.”

Under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002, officers have the power to stop anti-social motorists, issue fines, seize vehicles and have them destroyed when necessary, and anyone caught riding on pavements or roads illegally could also be dealt with for motoring offences such as riding without a licence and having no MoT or insurance.

Inspector Hitch also warned parents who are considering buying a motorbike or similar vehicle for their children to use off-road that unless they have permission for their children to use the vehicle on private land, not to buy one.

Anyone with information concerning nuisance vehicles can contact Beds Police on the 101 number or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.