PARENTS are being warned of the dangers of buying their children motorbikes this Christmas.
Police across Thurrock have launched a campaign to educate children and parents of the consequences of owning motorbikes, including mini motos, quad bikes and off-road motorbikes.
PC Neil Brand, of the Thurrock Safer Schools Partnership, has been running an awareness campaign in the borough’s schools providing posters and leaflets.
Alan Twine, crime reduction officer for Thurrock, has also been working with the campaign.
He said: “It is illegal to ride on the roads and open public spaces with unregistered motorised vehicles.
“What people don’t realise is legally, you are not even allowed to push them along the road with the engine off.”
“If you are looking to buy a mini moto, go-ped or off-road motor vehicle for your child this Christmas, you should be aware that unless it is used on private land only, with the owner’s permission, you will need to get insurance, licence, test certification, tax and registration for it.
“If not, and your child is seen on the highway or in a public place such as a park or playing field, both you and your child could be prosecuted, fined, and the vehicle seized.”
The vehicle is then likely to be crushed.
Mr Twine also said a driver number will be created for those caught driving the bikes who are below the legal age limit. Points will be added to this and eventually transfered to the youngster’s licence when they pass their test.
Mr Twine added: “We feel it is our responsibility to educate parents and children to these facts, but they need to work with us to stop this dangerous, nuisance behaviour.”
If you would like more information, call Alan Twine on 0300 3334444 or contact your local neighbourhood specialist officer by visiting www.essex.police.uk/ yourarea
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