POLICE in north Durham have set up an operation to tackle the illegal use of off road bikes.

The majority of calls in the Consett area concern the football pitches at the top of Delves Lane, land near to the Hownsgill Viaduct, The Grove and the land around the quarry at Castleside.

Targeted patrols are being carried out and the off road bike section have also been involved to increase the chances of catching those responsible.

PCSO Steven Liddle, from Consett Neighbourhood Team, said: "Our aim is to take a zero tolerance approach and robust action with any offenders that are caught.

"If you see any off road bike being used telephone 101 to report and please remember to pass over as much information as possible to our call handler including description of bike, description of clothing, location and or direction of travel.

“Our best result to dates have come from reliable information from members of the public.”