NUISANCE motorcyclists in Northwich may soon have the brakes put on their anti-social behaviour as a police clampdown operation steps up a gear.

Community Action Team (CAT) officers from the neighbourhood policing unit are ploughing full throttle ahead with their efforts to seize bikes being used illegally and anti-socially in areas such as Lostock, Barnton, Wincham and Weaverham.

Officers initially issue riders with a warning but if the bike is used to cause harassment, alarm or distress again the vehicle can be seized under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act.

And police community support officer (PCSO) Andy Cole said he has issued 10 warnings in recent weeks.

He added: "Three bikes were seized last week alone. All the PCSOs and PCs have these powers and we are using them each and every day.

"Mini-motorbikes, scooters and off-road bikes are all classed as mechanically propelled vehicles in the eyes of the law. This means people who use them must be aged at least 16 and covered by insurance.

"They must also hold the relevant licence and the vehicle they are using must meet strict construction and use requirements laid down in law. An MoT certifies this."

PCSO Cole said it is vital bikers know where they are allowed to ride. He added: "The only time these vehicles can be used without all this cover is on private land. Pavements, roads, country lanes, open spaces, shopping centres and waste ground are not private land.

"People who own these vehicles or have bought them for others have a duty to know exactly what the law is otherwise they run the risk of facing prosecution as well as losing their bikes."

And members of the public are urged to remain vigilant. PCSO Cole said: "The more information we have the better.

"We've already received some useful information including photographs which helps us identify and target the handful of culprits who are using these bikes."

To contact Northwich CAT team call 0845 458 6392 or to report an incident anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.