Three machines seized in crackdown by police

OFF-ROAD bikes were seized as police launched a crackdown.

Officers have warned they will come down hard on those who continue to drive the machines ‘in an anti social manner on unauthorised land’ It follows ‘repeated community concern’ about off-road bike activities in the area of Lee Quarry near Bacup and Stacksteads.

Police said three off-road bikes were seized on Sunday after reports by residents. A picture of the bikes were posted on Facebook as officers issued a warning. A spokesperson said: “Following reports from local residents about off road bike activities in the area of Lee Quarry; your local neighbourhood team have seized three off road bikes this morning.

“Off road bikes, riding in anti social manner are a repeated community concern and we will continue to target this area.”

Commenting on the post, one person said: “Winner, about time. This is the only way the area and police won’t be seen as being a soft touch! The track and washed out ruts are a result of mx bikes ripping the place to bits.”

Another said: “There’s lots of wildlife that use these quarries, they also ride across the moorland destroying that.”

However others were critical, one saying: “Need to concentrate on proper crime rather than taking peoples pride and joy, it’s a hobby there out of the way not on main roads there should be no problem.”

Another added: “Why not let people ride there motor cross /trials bikes in the quarry? It’s no use for anything else. The MTB trails haven’t been maintained and most trails have washed out, it’s up out the way not doing any harm to anybody.”