Spring Into Action

Local agencies spring into action!

Parks and open spaces are definitely off limits - as far as off-road riders are concerned!

That's the message from St.Helens Council, Merseyside Police and local community safety partners as the annual SpringWatch campaign aims to halt illegal riders in their tracks.

Off-road nuisance is one of the key targets of a campaign designed to curb anti-social behaviour during the lighter evenings.

And with more ramblers, dog walkers, families and children attracted to the borough's open spaces during spring and summer, agencies making up the Community Safety Partnership believe it's time to remind quad, mini moto and scrambler riders of their responsibilities.

Anti Social Behaviour Manager Colette McIntyre said: "Riding any of these machines on public land, parks, pavements, waste ground or footpaths in St.Helens is illegal"

"If you're using a motor vehicle that's causing - or is likely to cause - alarm, distress or annoyance to others, your vehicle will be seized."

Merseyside Police will be stepping up patrols in areas where residents have reported problems with the anti-social use of off-road vehicles. Police in Parr recently issued a Section 59 warning to the rider of a mini-moto in Downland Way, who was caught riding illegally on public land, causing nuisance and danger to local residents. The written warning entitles police to take possession of the vehicle next time it is seen causing nuisance on public land, parks or open spaces. Anyone found riding anti-socially will, where appropriate, have their vehicle seized or may be prosecuted.

To report off-road vehicle nuisance contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team on 101, or you can report without giving your details to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.