Police launch crackdown on off-road bikers

Police in Durham are launching a crackdown on off-road bikers who use public open spaces as race tracks.

DurhamConstabularysays anyone seen riding an off-road bike, quad or 4x4 in East Durham unlawfully risks have the vehicle seized straightaway.

The scheme aims to crackdown on nuisance riders and, initially, will target the Peterlee, Shotton Colliery and Wingate areas.

The notices also cover escooters which are currently illegal to use anywhere other than private land.

Warning signs are being erected in the areas to notify potential offenders of the new rulesandtheforceisalsoworking with Durham’s Police and Crime Commission Joy Allen, Durham County Council and DarlingtonBoroughCouncilto raise awareness of the scheme and encourage residents to report any incidents and help identify those responsible.

Sergeant Gavin Rutter, of Peterlee Neighbourhood Team, said: “We are committed to tackle issues that have a detrimentaleffectonresidents andtakepositiveactionagainst offendersregardingoffroadvehicle nuisance.”

Commissioner Allen said: “This initiative will be very much welcomed by local residentsintheaffectedareaswho have been calling for these illegally driven bikes to be confiscated immediately to prevent the drivers causing harassment, alarm and distress in theirlocalcommunitiesaswell as untold damage to community open spaces.

“I would urge anyone who knows where these bikes are being stored or who is riding them illegally to it so we can seize the bikes and take enforcement action against the riders.”

To report a nuisance vehicle, call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymouslyon08000555111.