DAVID CAMPBELL
Cops’warning to those putting lives at risk on public paths
Police have launched a crackdown on reckless yobs careering around public footpaths on motorbikes.
Fuming residents have raised concerns about teenagers hurtling through parks and cycle tracks in Dykebar, Ferguslie and Hunterhill in recent weeks.
Officers are also dealing with similar issues in the Howwood and Spateston areas and say they are committed to putting a stop to it.
Many of those driving the off road or quad bikes don’t have the right safety equipment and are putting their lives and the lives of innocent pedestrians at risk with their out-of-control antics.
Inspector Tracy Harkins, from Paisley’s community policing team, says extra patrols will be out to catch those involved.
She urged residents to report any issues, adding: “In recent weeks, we have received numerous calls from local residents reporting motorcycles causing alarm or annoyance in or around residential properties.
“Often, these vehicles are being used by young and inexperienced riders posing a serious risk to both the user and pedestrians alike.
“Invariably, the rider is inadequately dressed and runs the risk of serious injury if a collision occurs.
“I would ask parents to ensure that if your child owns such a vehicle that it is being used in accordance with the law and in an area where it is not causing annoyance or danger to local residents.
“We will be carrying out a series of patrols within the affected areas and any person caught flouting the law runs the risk of being charged and their vehicle seized under antisocial behaviour legislation”.
Officers in Howwood and Spateston met with Johnstone South and Elderslie Councillor Andy Steel to discuss the issue after residents reported similar issues.
A Police Scotland spokesman said: “Officers met with Councillor Steel on the footpath between Halhill Road and Midton Road to discuss the ongoing efforts to tackle this issue.
“Please report any instances of antisocial behaviour.”
Express readers with information should call police on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Often, these vehicles are being used by young and inexperienced riders, posing a serious risk to the user and pedestrian alike