RECKLESS drivers could have their vehicles seized and even crushed if they do not mend their dangerous ways.

Police in Bishop Auckland have warned motorists who drive around the town centre in an anti-social manner that they will get only one warning before their cars are impounded.

Last week, two cars were seen speeding along North Bondgate and officers were able to stop one.

Police discovered the 18-year-old male driver had been stopped in September and warned about speeding in a pedestrian zone, so seized his Vauxhall Corsa.

It costs £105 plus £12 a day to recover a seized vehicle.

Police community support officer Ian McCarthy said: "We will not accept anti-social driving - it is dangerous and intimidating for visitors to the town centre and disturbs residents.

"We want drivers to show a bit of thought for others. We have seized about eight vehicles in as many months and will do it again. If a driver or vehicle is stopped after already being issued a warning, the vehicle can be impounded.

"Having to pay for its release should be a deterrent."

Sedgefield Borough Council has issued a similar warning to motorcyclists, whose dangerous riding is putting visitors to two popular walkways at risk.

An alarming number of near-accidents between walkers and motorcyclists at Ferryhill Carrs Local Nature Reserve and Castle Eden Walkway, near Sedgefield, have been reported to the council recently.

A footpath link and maintenance access route at Ferryhill Carrs has opened up the area to more people.

Though the extra visitors and the presence of voluntary wardens has seen a gradual reduction in most anti-social behaviour, mini-motorbike usage at the reserve has increased.

The council is concerned that irresponsible motorcyclists could crash into a walker and disturb wildlife.

To tackle the problem, the council's neighbourhood wardens plan a series of high- visibility patrols on the reserve.

They warn that riding a motorbike on private or local authority land is illegal without the owner's written permission, and motorcyclists found on the reserve will have their bikes confiscated and possibly crushed.

The wardens can be contacted on 01388-721351.