Parents warned mini-motorbikes gifts for children could bring crushing blow

In South Yorkshire yesterday, Doncaster Council and police officers demonstrated how the confiscated motorbikes can be destroyed at Doncaster Motor Spares.

During the first three months of this year, 82 such bikes were taken from children in Doncaster who were riding them "in a way that was annoying to other residents" – and the authorities are on the lookout for more of them in 2011. Offences that can cause the bikes to be seized range from noise nuisance to riding them illegally.

Chief Inspector Andy Kent from South Yorkshire Police said: "The riders of the bikes tend to ride illegally, whether intentionally or not, and we want to warn people that they risk prosecution and having their bike destroyed if they do not adhere to the law.

"They should familiarise themselves with the necessary requirements and ensure they can adhere to the rules and regulations before making the decision to purchase the bike."

Coun Cynthia Ransome from Doncaster Council added: "Parents who think a motorbike is a suitable present for their child should think again. They are unsafe for children."