The police are on the trail of three youngsters who tore up grass verges in Hartlepool by riding their bikes off-road. 

The three teens tore up verges in The Headland, around Vincent Street and Old Cemetery Road on Monday afternoon (February 19). 

The actions caused "fear and distress" to residents, with Cleveland Police warning that this kind of antisocial behaviour is dangerous to pedestrians too. 

A spokesperson from the force said: "These youngsters were spotted at The Headland, around Vincent Street and Old Cemetery Road on Monday afternoon, February 19, between 3pm and 4pm.

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"They were riding on public footpaths, destroying grassed areas and spinning their rear wheels to spray mud at other vehicles.

"This type of antisocial behaviour causes fear and distress to those living in the area, and is dangerous to those walking on the public footpaths.

"If you know who these youngsters are, or have any further information on off-road bikes in the town, please call Hartlepool Police on 101."