POLICE today pledged to crackdown on irresponsible motorcyclists following an influx of complaints about scramblers in parts of Burnley.

Officers in the Briercliffe and Lanehead areas of the town are ready to take tough action against the motorcycle menaces and use new powers to seize bikes.

They have already warned six motorcyclists that they risk having their bikes taken away if they continue to cause trouble.

The move follows complaints from locals about scramblers.

Police have already seized a number of bikes -- exercising a relatively new power which enables them to take action against anyone causing alarm, distress or annoyance under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002.

Briercliffe Community Beat Manager, PC Ian Thompson said: "Myself, PCSO Dave Johnson and other officers have had a number of complaints about motorbike nuisance in the Briercliffe and Lanehead areas over the past few months.

"Given the activities of the cyclists and the amount of distress and annoyance they are causing we are keen to take action.

"To date, six people have received warnings about their behaviour. Should they choose to ignore those warnings, then we will have no option but to move in and seize the vehicles."

He said: "The irresponsible and sometimes illegal use of off road bikes, unregistered bikes and Go Peds in residential areas is causing a menace to pedestrians and children.

"Where appropriate we will take tough action against those responsible. Those people who risk the safety of the public in this way can expect a court appearance and their bikes will be seized."