Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner has urged the government to consider introducing tougher laws over the use of e-scooters and e-bikes.

In a letter to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, Clive Grunshaw said there was a need  to address the "safety risks and anti-social behaviour" associated with such vehicles and off-road bikes.

It follows tragic incidents such as in Burnley earlier this year, where a granddad lost his life in a crash involving an e-scooter. 

Mr Grunshaw called for specific offences and strengthened punishments for those illegally riding these vehicles to be included in any future policing and crime bill. He also wanted additional powers for police and local authorities to tackle hotspot areas more effectively.

Mr Grunshaw said he will be reaching out to MPs to garner their support in making Lancashire safer.

Mr Grunshaw, said: “The illegal use of bikes, quads and e-scooters is the top issue that members of the public raise with me every day. Its endemic and the police need more powers to deal with it.

"This issue highlights what I’ve always said - that government legislation needs to be based on the unique community needs faced by individual areas, to deliver policing that best serves the public and keeps them safe.

“It’s only by focusing how laws are enacted on the needs of different areas, that we will best deliver what residents want to see, more bobbies on the beat and investment in neighbourhood policing.

“It is also vital that we get the basics right when it comes to call handling, response times, investigations, keeping victims informed and bringing offenders to justice.

"These are all areas I will continue to monitor through my accountability board with the Chief Constable.

“As the public’s voice in policing, I will continue to lobby for stronger laws and ensure that every measure taken is used to deliver the best possible policing service for the people of Lancashire.”