POLICE officers are targeting riders of motorised scooters in an attempt to reduce anti-social behaviour and make people aware of legal issues regarding the vehicles. Between January and April this year there have been over 20 reported incidents in Letchw

POLICE officers are targeting riders of motorised scooters in an attempt to reduce anti-social behaviour and make people aware of legal issues regarding the vehicles.

Between January and April this year there have been over 20 reported incidents in Letchworth GC and 13 in Baldock of motorised scooters - minimotos, go-peds and buzzboards - being ridden in an anti-social manner, often causing a nuisance and danger to the public.

Recently a bike was seized in Letchworth GC after a member of the public called the police to say two youths had been seen riding at Ivel Court.

With the summer holidays approaching, police are keen to remind the public that motorised scooters are sold as not being suitable for use on the road.

They do not conform to current Department of Transport approval standards and therefore cannot be registered with the DVLA or be insured.

If uninsured bikes are used on a public road or public place they will be seized by the police and any rider without insurance could face an on the spot fine of £200 and six penalty points.

Insp Geoff Camp, of the Letchworth, Baldock and Royston community team, said many parents are unaware of the laws surrounding these bikes.

He said: "Penalties can be quite severe, quite apart from the prospect of the bike being seized.

"And of course, riding these bikes without appropriate equipment and training can be dangerous, both to the rider and to the public.

"I would urge parents not to buy or allow their children to use one of these bikes unless they are totally satisfied that it can be ridden lawfully."

Anyone with information should call the Constabulary's non-emergency number 0845 33 00 222 or contact the Letchworth community team on 01462 425196 or the Baldock community team on 01462 425191.