Residents warned - illegal bikes will be crushed

Residents are being warned that any dangerous off-road bikes they buy as Christmas presents will be crushed.

Greater Manchester Police and Manchester City Council will be crushing illegal off-road bikes during an event at Farrer Road in Longsight at 2.15pm on Thursday October 27.

And they will also be crushed during a separate event at the car park of Asda Harpurhey from 11am on Saturday October 29.

In both cases, the police seized the bikes after residents complained to the City Council's anti social behaviour team about them being rode through estates.

Any bike that is being ridden on the road without being taxed and insured is illegal.

Off-road bikes cannot be used legally anywhere in Manchester, as well as being dangerous and noisy, and they are one of the main issues that residents talk about when looking at ways their neighbourhoods could be improved.

Housing association tenants are also being warned that if an off-road bike is found at their home they may be in breach of their tenancy agreement and could be evicted.

Manchester City Council deputy leader Councillor Jim Battle said: "Most people have got the message that it is illegal to ride off road bikes in Manchester, but it seems there are a handful of people still flouting the law, putting themselves and other people in danger.

"With Christmas approaching, some people may be tempted to buy these bikes at presents. The message is clear - if you do this, your bike will be seized and crushed. What's more, you'll face serious consequences including appearing before a court, being prosecuted and possibly losing your home."

Chief Inspector Donna Allen said: "I want to reassure our communities that police take off-road bikes very seriously and that action will always be taken against anyone using bikes illegally or putting others at risk by riding them dangerously.

"Bike crushing events like this, allow communities to see that this anti social behaviour will not be tolerated. I hope this gives people the confidence to know we are listening and acting on their concerns."

If you see any off road bikers in your area you can report them to:

Greater Manchester Police on 0161 872 5050

Crimestoppers, anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.

Keep a record of:

The rider's clothing

The type of off road bike. Is it a quad bike, scrambler, mini-moto, a go-ped or something else?

The location of the off road biking

The name and address of the rider, if you know it.