[O.G]

A crackdown on yobs who cause misery by illegally riding mini-moto scooters is being launched.

The Home Office will give extra funding of £200,000 to tackle the problem this summer.

Its Respect Task Force is publishing a step-by-step practical guide for residents, local police and the courts giving clear advice on how communities can deal with the problem.

Home Secretary John Reid will launch the nationwide crackdown in Manchester where mini-bikes confiscated by police will be crushed by a machine to ram the message home.

Dr Reid is launching the crackdown in 28 "hot-spot" areas including Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Newcastle and Hull.

An online advertising campaign, linked to mini-moto websites, will also warn riders about anti-social behaviour and the consequences.

Dr Reid said: "Misuse of mini-motos is dangerous and is causing misery in too many of our local communities.

"We are working with police and local partners to promote safe and sensible use.

"These vehicles are not toys and I want to see irresponsible drivers stopped and if necessary their bikes crushed.

"It is not acceptable to ride these vehicles on our streets or parks and the guidance we are giving to police and users is clear - irresponsible use will be punished."

Already nuisance drivers who screech up and down streets and over playing fields can be fined, have their bikes confiscated and crushed as well as getting points on their licence - even if they haven't yet got one yet because they are too young.

It is illegal to ride unregistered mini-motos and similar off-roading vehicles on pavements, in parks and on public highways. They should only be used on private land where permission has already been given.


Personally i think they are a pain and could be very dangerous towards other people.