OFF-ROAD bikers are being warned their vehicles could be seized in an effort to improve public safety in Shildon's streets and parks.

After floods of complaints from people in the town, police have vowed to crack down on irresponsible quad bike and motorcycle riders who cause havoc in the town.

Five motorcycles were confiscated last weekend, when the campaign was launched by Durham Constabulary.

It is hoped the campaign, which will continue through summer, will be supported by local people working with police to find sites where off-road bikers can ride safely and legally.

People in Shildon, particularly young families and the elderly, have complained to the police about the noise and danger caused by off-road motorcyclists.

At the centre of the problem is the Jubilee Fields area, where culprits have cut up grass verges and put themselves and the public at risk.

Designated beat officer PC Mandy Lawton is urging motorcyclists to stop using their bikes in this way before someone is hurt.

She said: "These bikers threaten the safety of children playing and other people in the vicinity by going through housing estates to reach grassed areas where they tear about at speed putting themselves and others at risk of injury. They need to be aware that there is nowhere in Shildon where they are allowed to ride motorbikes off-road."

Police suspect some parts of motorbikes seized last Saturday and Sunday could have been stolen.

PC Lawton said: "There are people who part with good money to buy bikes, only to discover that the machines themselves or parts of them are stolen. If this is the case they can lose the bike permanently or those parts that are stolen."

Anyone considering buying a motorcycle can get advice from police before purchase.

PC Lawson said: "I'd be happy to take a look at a bike for them. It is better for them to find out there is a problem before they buy a machine than afterwards."

The move in Shildon follows similar initiatives across the county to combat the problem of nuisance bikers.

In Evenwood, Teesdale, police are now able to film young culprits who have wrecked the village greens and used the video evidence in court.

In West Auckland, police have teamed up with councillors to look for a plot of land where riders can enjoy their sport in safety.