People who think that it is acceptable to ride motorbikes, mopeds, scooters or mini-motos in a dangerous way across public land could be in for a shock when they have their means of transport seized and destroyed as part of a summer crackdown on nuisance vehicles.
The summer holiday and plenty of sunshine mean that youngsters are enjoying the parks and public areas across Bedfordshire but a small minority are ruining people’s enjoyment by breaking the law and riding motorbikes off-road often without crash helmets, insurance or tax.
Local Policing Teams across the county will be stepping up patrols during the summer months as well as taking full advantage of Section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002 which gives them the ability to stop anti-social motorists and warn them about their behaviour as well as issuing fines. Where necessary, officers also have the power to seize vehicles and have them destroyed. Anyone caught riding on pavements or roads illegally will also be dealt with for motoring offences such as riding without a licence and having no MoT or insurance.
PCSO Joshua Tonkin of the Kempston Safer Neighbourhood Team, warned: “I want to make it quite plain we will be stepping up patrols and will be taking firm action against those people who flout the law. Residents across Bedfordshire should not have to worry about vehicles tearing up and down the streets in which they live or in the alleyways or parks surrounding them.
“Over the past month we have had an increase in motorbikes being ridden by the river and on footpaths around Kempston. These riders need to realise that this is unacceptable - not only is it an offence, but it is also extremely dangerous for others.
“Local officers have increased patrols in Kempston and will be dealing with offenders robustly. These riders need to understand that if they ride there motorbike in a park or somewhere else that they shouldn’t they will receive a warning or have their motorbike seized. I encourage members of the public to report any anti-social riders by calling 101.
“Parents can also help by understanding that children should only ride machines in supervised conditions and on land where the owner has given prior permission. Mini-motorbikes should certainly not be ridden on pavements or roads.”
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