A POLICE operation will aim to take nuisance bikes and quads off the roads of the Birstall area.

The campaign, being carried out by the Batley and Spen area NPT, started on Monday and is due to run until April 30.

Officers will be patrolling the Birstall, Fieldhead and Batley areas.

The operation has been put in place following a number of concerns raised by the local community about these types of vehicles on local roads.

In the first two days of the operation, there were two bikes seized, three people reported for summons at court, and five section 59 warnings issued.

Sergeant Chris Field, of Batley and Spen NPT, is leading the operation, said: "Nuisance bikes can cause distress and anti-social behaviour with noise nuisance as well as a danger to the public and their riders.

"Warnings will be issued to anyone seen riding a bike in an anti-social manner, using an off-road bike on the road or causing a danger to other road users. My officers will be using their full scope of powers and will seize these bikes as appropriate which often leads to these being crushed and disposed of.

"There are safe and lawful ways for people to enjoy their hobby but we will not tolerate their use when it is to the detriment of other people trying to enjoy their evenings and weekends in peace and safety.

"I would urge the public to report any incidents of off-road bikes and anti-social behaviour to the police. In particular, we would like any details or descriptions of the riders themselves, the bikes they are riding and the location."

Anyone who witnesses anyone using an off-road bike on the road or in an anti-social manner can report it to the police via 101. Information can also be passed to independent charity Crimestoppers via 0800 555 111.