Illegal bikes seized in crackdown

Police said that the bikes were noisy, dangerous and damaging

Police have taken 21 scrambler and quad bikes off the streets of Kirkby in Merseyside during a clampdown on anti-social nuisance.

They said they had received complaints from residents about the illegal use of off-road bikes in the area.

The bikes were said to be noisy, dangerous and damaging. Any rider using one illegally or dangerously faces prosecution, said police.

Bikes being used illegally could be confiscated and crushed.

Neighbourhood inspector Mark Wiggins said that when used on public parks the bikes tore up grassland, parks and open spaces.

Insp Wiggins said: "Our message to parents whose children have asked for a scrambler bike as a present is to please think responsibly.

"Giving your child one of these bikes could lead to serious injury for them or for another member of the public."