POLICE are targeting youths causing chaos on motorbikes around Castle.

It comes as officers fear the longer nights and the warmer weather will bring illegal riders out in their droves.

They will be stepping up patrols around the Hunts Lock area, and are calling for residents who see anyone riding either illegally or anti-socially to come forward.

PCSO Barbara Stock said: 'Mini-motos, mopeds and scooters all cause considerable upset to members of the community if they are used in a dangerous and anti-social manner.

'People who own these vehicles or have bought them for others have a duty to know exactly what the law is in relation to their use, otherwise they run the risk of facing prosecution as well as losing their bikes.

'They are classed as mechanically propelled which means people who use them must be aged at least 16 and covered by insurance. They must also hold the relevant licence and the vehicle must meet strict construction and use requirements laid down in law.

'The only time these vehicles can be used without all this cover in place is on private land. Pavements, roads, country lanes, open spaces such as parks and fields, shopping centres and waste ground are not private land.'

Police can seize bikes and cars which are causing harassment, alarm or distress - even if the motorist is fully above board in terms of tax and insurance.