Cross-border weekend of action tackles rural crime

Merseyside Police - in partnership with Cheshire Police and Lancashire Police - carried out a weekend of action tackling rural crime in Southport on 10/11 April.

Tasked with dealing with the illegal and dangerous riding of motorcycles, quad bikes and other vehicles on the Cheshire Lines, officers seized nine vehicles throughout the day.

Offences committed included void insurance due to driving off-road, careless and inconsiderate driving, licence plate offences, and the illegally carrying of a pillion. A number of riders were also found breaching Section 34 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 -  driving a mechanically propelled vehicle without lawful authority on common land, moorland or land not forming part of a road, or on any road which is a footpath, bridleway or restricted byway.

Careless and inconsiderate driving can attract an unlimited fine, three to nine points on your licence, and disqualification. Driving with no insurance can attract an unlimited fine, six to eight points on your licence, and disqualification. 

Chief Inspector Michael O'Malley said: "If you were found to be riding illegally on the footpath, cycle path or bridleway yesterday, keep an eye on your post box because you're likely to receive a notice of intended prosecution for any offences committed.

"This anti-social and reckless behaviour puts innocent members of the public at risk. It will not be tolerated by Merseyside Police and our partner forces, and if you are found to be committing these offences we won't hesitate to take action."

Anyone with information on antisocial behaviour or the illegal use of quad bikes is asked to message @MerPolCC or @CrimestoppersUK on Twitter, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.