Mini motorbikes crushed by police

Bikes costing hundreds of pounds were crushed

Police have crushed eight mini-moto motorcycles confiscated in County Durham as part of a campaign to warn riders to use them responsibly.

The bikes were seized in the first two weeks of a crackdown in Newton Aycliffe, following complaints of anti-social behaviour from residents.

Durham Police warned parents that further seizures would follow if they continue to be used in public places.

In one case a family had just paid £800 for a bike that was seized and crushed.

Police said the use of mini-motos, which can reach speeds of up to 50mph (80km/h), had led to many complaints.

'Fun toy'

They can only be used on private land and with the permission of the landowner.

Inspector Graham Milne of Durham Police said: "Those riders who take to the streets and pavements are a danger and a nuisance.

"The may seem a fun toy to their users, but they are anything but to everyone else."

In the first two weeks of the clampdown, 11 warnings were given to riders and eight were seized and crushed.

A force spokesman added: "All the riders stopped were in their teens. Some have been as young as 14.

"One person who had his bike seized had just paid £800 for it and another had bought his machine for £450.

"We would urge parents to take note of the law."