Police target men behaving badly

Aug 20 2008 By Ed Saunt

Motorbikes

Middle-aged men racing mini-motorbikes illegally are providing police with a new challenge in the battle against anti-social behaviour.

Where terrorising Stanwell residents was once the preserve of teenagers, it seems their parents have got in on the act and have been reported riding noisly and dangerously around Town Lane at all hours.

The issue was raised with beat bobby Michelle Charlesworth at a panel meeting on August 19 by Father Ken Rimini of St David's Church in Everest Road, who has seen men in their 30s and 40s riding the bikes illegally on recreation ground used by children behind his church.

He said: "Most of the time in the past it's been kids that got the blame but I see men in their 30s and 40s riding them. It beggars belief.

"It's a play area for children and if you see a 6ft man sitting on one of these silly little bikes without a helmet or any safety equipment it's very unstable and very dangerous.

"When it's adults or even the parents of some of the kids, it's totally irresponsible and a danger to the children who want to play in the park."

Police seized mini moped's being ridden illegally in Long Lane and London Road, Ashford in July and have pledged to clamp down on offenders.

Andrew McLuskey, of Diamedes Avenue, said the problem is widespread throughout Stanwell. He said: "Mini-motorbikes tend to be a problem that comes and goes. It's one thing when it's teenagers but when it's adults the mind boggles. It seems the parents are as irresponsible as the children."

A police spokesman said: "Police are regularly receiving reports from members of the public and sadly we are not just talking about an offence just committed by youths - there is also a growing problem with adults riding these vehicles."

Anyone who has witnessed incidents of illegal mini motorbike riding should contact Surrey Police on 0845 125 2222 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.