Warning to young motorcyclists

North Wales Police are warning parents of the dangers of youths riding substandard motorcycles.

The warning comes after the Towyn and Kinmel Bay policing team last week spoke to four youths and seized two motorcycles as the riders had no insurance.

Police set out to identify the offenders after residents expressed concern about off road motorcycles in the St Asaph Avenue area of Kinmel Bay and on the Tir Llwyd Industrial Park area.

PC Steve Thomas, CBM for Towyn and Kinmel Bay, said: "These motorcycles are used by youths and parents should be aware that insurance is required when a motor vehicle is used on any road or public place, regardless of the age of the rider."

He added: "Licence conditions must also be adhered to, as these offences can lead to arrest and penalty points on a licence."

One of the motorcycles seized had a defective exhaust and the front cog was exposed. The engine on another was secured into the frame with string.

PC Thomas went on: "Parents should be aware that most of the motorcycles we have found are substandard and dangerous. Where appropriate, the vehicles will be seized and both parents and riders need to be reminded that they need insurance. Furthermore, the use of these vehicles in most cases is causing annoyance to other residents."