NUISANCE BIKES CRUSHED

Nuisance bikes went under the crusher in Harlow yesterday (1 Aug) as part of the latest phase of the “Catch and Crush” campaign. And bikers seems to be getting the message that if they ride illegally, they can expect their bike to be confiscated and crushed.

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Just two mini moto bikes were smashed by a JCB in Market Square, proof that the campaign, which has been running since last summer, is having an effect.

Earlier this year Harlow Council and the Police carried out surveillance and followed up reports of illegally ridden nuisance bikes. Despite a large number of seizures in the first phase of the operation last year, the problems have been decreasing. In the latest operation two bikes were seized and five warnings issued. Nine fixed penalty notices were also issued to car drivers spotted using mobile phones whilst driving or not using seat belts.

Harlow Council and Harlow Police launched operation Catch and Crush in July 2006 following concerns from residents about mini motos, quad bikes and scramblers being ridden on public land or roads. Under the law, all such bikes must be taxed and insured. Following a first phase of surveillance, confiscated bikes were crushed in the town square in August 2006 watched by residents who had been annoyed by bike nuisance and Home Office Minister Joan Ryan.

Chair of Harlow Council’s Environment and Community Committee Cllr Eleanor Macy said: “Mini motos and other such bikes were a huge problem last year. The problem hasn’t totally gone away but it seems to have reduced as riders get the message that we are carrying out surveillance. There are a number of tracks that they can use perfectly legitimately that do not cause nuisance to local people. It can be very frightening to see these vehicles coming past you at speed on a footpath or in a park area.”

Neighbourhood policing officer, Pc Peter Cran, who spearheaded the recent campaign said: “The public crushing of these bikes sends a clear message that we will not tolerate mini moto nuisance within our communities. This is the second successful crushing event to be held and it is reassuring that the number of complaints and bikes seized for crushing has been dramatically reduced. The JCB driver has certainly enjoyed himself by smashing the bikes to smithereens.”

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Notes to editors

Under guidance issued by the Government’s Respect task force, drivers of illegally ridden mini motos can receive points on their licence (even if they haven’t yet got one), face a driving ban or have their vehicles crushed.