PARENTS are being urged to curb their over-enthusiastic mini-motorbike-riding children.

PC Richard Houghton said the police had received several complaints of youngsters some as young as 12 using roads and footpaths.

"Anyone riding on the highway needs documents including a licence and insurance, and they should not be doing so if they are so young."

He added that police had had reports from Norton and some villages that the mini motor-bikers were causing a nuisance and a risk to themselves and others.

PC Houghton said: "We are asking parents to ensure their children do not go on the road or footpath riding a mini-bike because it is illegal and they are a danger to others."

He said while the machines look small some are only about 12 inches high they can reach speeds of 20 to 25 mph. Some are being ridden in culs-de-sac which created a potential danger to other children, adults and pets.

PC Houghton pointed out that the bikes can only be used off-road, and even then only with the permission of the landowner, he added.