Registration plate for water bike

'Genuine' water bikers get a bad name, says a local councillor

Number plates are to be issued to water bikes using an estuary in Gwynedd to try to cut down on nuisance problems.

The harbour committee at Barmouth had considered a ban on bikes after complaints about noise.

Instead, owners will have to register their crafts with the Gwynedd Council's maritime department from next month.

Two plates will be fixed on either side of the bikes. Councillor Aeron Williams said he hoped water bikers would report "cowboys" giving their use a bad name.

The committee also decided that the six knot speed limit would be enforced, with speed limit signs on the Mawddach estuary.

Leaflets with a code of conduct and regulations governing water bikes will also be handed out.

Arthog Community Council wanted a total ban on water bikes but this was not approved.

The committee will now monitor the situation and report back in October.