PARENTS have been warned by police to think carefully before giving their youngsters mini-motorbikes. Patrols are being stepped up in March to stop the anti-social behaviour of the mini-motorbike users causing mayhem on housing estates. And police say th

PARENTS have been warned by police to think carefully before giving their youngsters mini-motorbikes.Patrols are being stepped up in March to stop the anti-social behaviour of the mini-motorbike users causing mayhem on housing estates. And police say they will take all complaints seriously.A spokesman said: "You wouldn't give your young children the keys to your car, so think carefully before giving them the keys to a mini-motorbike. They are not toys".Last week's Cambs Times featured a photograph of a mini-motorcycle and its rider taken by a resident of Worsley Chase. Iain Anderson claimed that although police had been alerted, the machines were zooming around his estate. Mark Smith of Camargue Drive said: "Since Christmas we have had to put up with three youths, two of whom live nearby, tearing up and down the roads. "Sooner or later a nasty accident will happen. Their parents obviously don't care what they do."Another March resident has also contacted the police about motorcyclists riding on a field on the Cavalry Park estate.A police spokesman said: "Many parents don't realise that when they buy these bikes for their children and let them ride on the road or pavement, they are committing an offence."Mini motor-bikes can only be legally ridden by children on private land with the landowners' permission. "Unless they are taxed, insured, have an MoT, and are used by someone with the appropriate licence, mini-motorbikes cannot be ridden on public highways."Even if you have the landowner's permission, action can still be taken. "The consequences of riding these bikes illegally include a large fine, imprisonment, seizure of the vehicle, and loss of driving licence."March Sector Inspector Richard Lowings, said: "Patrols have been increased in the Worsley Chase area. Officers need the community's help in identifying those responsible for this anti-social or nuisance driving and behaviour and want to hear from anyone with information about individual incidents. All reports will be taken seriously and anyone with information should call 0845 456 4564.