ROGUE bikers who race around a green area in Middlesbrough have been stopped in their tracks with a new 3.5m fence.

Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council are building the fence around the recreational area known as Whale Hill tip, Eston.

The fencing will still allow pedestrians, wheelchairs and buggies in but it will stop motorbikes and quad bikes from being able to access the field. Residents have been complaining about the vehicles for some time.

Inspector Chris Barker, from the Greater Eston Neighbourhood Police Team, said: “Officers have already been working with local schools to educate youths in relation to the dangers of riding these bikes and the disruption it causes to local residents.

“Cleveland Police is committed to seizing bikes used illegally or in an anti-social manner and where possible all available sanctions will be used.

“Deterring motorcycles and quad bikes from this recreational area will make the area safer and encourage more use of the area by the whole community.”

Local councillor Bob Norton said: "We’re delighted this problem is being addressed and the Council is attempting to tackle the issues that have been facing residents in this recreational area.

“The fencing will not only deter anti-social behaviour, it will enhance the safety of those children and families who use the green belt area, especially as we approach the school summer holiday period.”

Anyone with information regarding the antisocial vehicles or those that ride them is asked to contact Cleveland Police on the non-emergency number 101, Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.