Police have launched an operation in Chorley and South Ribble to address the illegal and nuisance use of off-road motorbikes, mopeds, scrambler bikes and quads bikes across the area.

Codenamed Operation Seizure, it will see officers patrolling areas which residents have highlighted as an area of concern including cycle tracks, housing estates, wasteland and industrial estates.

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Officers will utilise a range of powers to seize any bikes that are being used illegally and prosecute those committing offences.

Read more: Appeal for information about three males riding bikes dangerously in Ingol

Sgt Paul Harrison from Chorley Police said: “Local residents have told us that this is a problem in the area and it is affecting their quality of life. This operation is about taking action to address these concerns and make our communities safer.

“We suspect that some people believe it’s ok to ride in places like the public footpaths at the end of Common Bank Lane in Chorley or the Old Tram Road in Penwortham.  I must stress that no permission has been given for this activity so please do not take your children there to play on quad or scrambler bikes.

“Riders pose a danger to pedestrians, themselves and other road users. We will be looking to remove bikes from nuisance and illegal riders, bringing those responsible for committing offences before the courts.

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“We have set up a dedicated email address to make it easier to report motorcycle nuisance to us. We will collate and examine any information sent to us and treat it with confidence. People can also submit photographs and dash cam footage to help us identify those responsible but we must stress that images should only ever be taken if it is safe to do so.

“By reporting incidents to us, you will help us to build a picture of who the repeat offenders are and where the problem areas are. We will then be better placed to tackle this long-term problem, making Chorley and South Ribble a safer place for all.”

Officers are asking the public to report any anti-social activity or nuisance riders to Opseizure@lancashire.police.uk. Reports can also be made on 101 – or, if there is an imminent danger, 999 should be dialled.