Patrols stepped up to curb off-road biking (From The Advertiser Series)

Patrols stepped up to curb off-road biking in Stanley

6:00pm Thursday 18th October 2012 in News By Bruce Unwin, Chief Reporter (Durham)

REGULAR patrols are taking place to crack down on nuisance off-road bikers plaguing townsfolk.

Neighbourhood wardens from Durham County Council are working with Durham Police community support officers to tackle problems caused by off-road motorbikes being driven illegally in the Stanley area.

It follows concerns raised by local people about the dangers caused by off-road bikes being driven illegally and irresponsibly, often causing a nuisance for pedestrians and householders living nearby.

Patrols are taking place in areas where issues have been highlighted, including stretches of the Sustrans C2C cycle path passing near to the town.

Those stopped and caught in the act will be issued with notices and risk having their bikes and quad bikes seized if they are found to have been ridden illegally.

Ian Hoult, the council’s north streetscene area manager, said: “The council and the police hope to combat the issue of nuisance motorbikes by patrolling problem areas in Stanley as part of our commitment to creating safer neighbourhoods.”

Anyone with concerns about off-road bikers should contact the police non-emergency number 101.