Darwen mini moto crackdown

Officers are getting tough after a series of incidents where riders have performed ‘doughnuts’ – 360-degree skids using the back wheels – in main roads.

Police are also cracking down on motorised scooters, go-peds, and scrambler bikes.

Last week Police Constable Phil Hambley and PCSO Michelle Davies stopped a 16-year-old boy in Sandringham Road.

The boy, who was carrying a passenger wearing no helmet, was issued with a warning.

Officers can seize the scooter if he is caught riding dangerously again.

They have pledged to take similar action against others as they step up patrols around hot spot areas.

PC Hambley said: “Anti-social use of mini motos and scooters has been impacting heavily on the quality of life for many residents in Darwen.

“Not only do they cause a nuisance to members of the community, but they can also be extremely dangerous to other road users and pedestrians and we will continue to run similar operations in the future.”

It is against the law to use a mini moto in public parks, open spaces, or on footpaths, pavements, cycle routes and bridleways.

It is an offence to use a mini moto on a footpath to pass from one piece of private land to another.

People under 16 are only legally allowed to ride a mini moto on private land, but permission of the land owner must be given.

Anyone over the age of 16 may use the mini moto on the roads only if the vehicle is registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency, taxed and insured, has correct number plates, indicators, working lights, and the rider has a full driving licence and is wearing approved protective clothing.