POLICE are urging parents not to let their children loose on roads and

public areas with mini motorcyles after being flooded with complaints

over the Easter weekend.

It comes after officers in Preston received more than 40 phone calls

about the miniature motorbikes being ridden on Haslam Park, Ingol,

Preston.

They say it is illegal to ride the bikes on roads without a licence,

number plates, or a helmet, and fear the bikes, which can be bought for

as little asA3200 and can travel at speeds in excess of 30 miles per

hour, are being bought for children without parents knowing all the

rules.

Sergeant Steve Ryder, of Preston police, said: "I don't think some

parents know where their children can and can't use the bikes.

He said the bikes are being sold legitimately at shops across the city

and on the internet, but that if used on roads the same rules are other

motor vehicles apply.

"We are not wanting to be killjoys but want parents to know that their

children will be breaking the law if they are in the streets with mini

motos."

He said police are currently searching for sites where the bikes can be

used safely without causing problems to residents.

He added: "Under the Police Reform Act police have the power to impound

the bikes, we have not impounded any yet but we will if we need to."

A council spokesman said: "Mini motorcycles are an increasing problem.

They cause a lot of damage to grass areas and can cause serious injuries

if they hit some one.

"We are working with the police and local communities to tackle the

problem and find the best way forward to prevent them being used on

Preston's parks."