Off-road bike crackdown

Police have again urged the public to help them catch problem off-road bikers amid a surge in complaints.

The problems caused by off-road bikers affect almost every part of West Lothian, from forestry trails around Fauldhouse to Greendykes Bing in Broxburn, to the pavements everywhere in between.

Police have been running an active social media campaign against bikers’ dangerous behaviour – youths tearing around footpaths in built up areas across the county.

And speaking at local area committees this month Community Sergeant Iain Wells again urged the public to help them – as he highlighted that one of his team was facing medical retirement from the force as he now has to live with lifechanging injuries having been struck by a motorcycle on a footpath in Livingston 18 months ago.

Complaints fall into two categories. In areas such as the first trails and Greendykes bing, genuine enthusiasts pit their wits against the terrain.

They are fully equipped and kitted out. That doesn’t mean it’s disturbance free. It’s noisy and potentially dangerous for others in the area.

In Broxburn the community has had enough of the bing being used as national off-road motorcycling venue – drawing off road bikers from across Scotland and England.

High profile policing days have been carried to some limited effect in the area.

It’s on town streets that these bikes are more deadly however. They are lightweight, fast and highly manoeuvrable.

They also demand a driving and riding skill set far out of the reach of many who straddle them without a helmet or a shred of protective clothing, and often without a licence or insurance.

Sgt Wells said:“We continue to receive a significant number of complaints from concerned members of the public about the illegal, dangerous and inconsiderate use of off road motorbikes across West Lothian.

“If you are aware of who owns the bikes, even if you don’t see them being driven, we are keen to hear from you. Alongside our partners we can pay visits and advise, educate or enforce as required.”

You can also report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800555111 or call the police via 101.