POLICE are cracking down on off-road bikes in Bolton after a number of reports in recent weeks.

On Sunday, officers spotted a group of around 15 off-road bike riders together on Stoneclough Road despite the coronavirus lockdown being in place.

One person was issued with a summons after being reported for riding with no licence or insurance and a bike was seized.

On another occasion, on Sunday, April 10, riders were caught on camera racing around the fields at Smithills School at around 6.30pm.

Off-road bikes were also seen on Carisbrooke Drive days before.

Chief Inspector Mike Russell from Greater Manchester Police's (GMP) Bolton Division said: "We are aware of a number of recent incidents involving off-road bikes across Bolton, and I want to assure the public that we are continuously striving to reduce these types of incidents to ensure members of our communities feel safe and secure in the areas where they live and work.

“The neighbourhood teams conduct regular patrols and operations targeting this behaviour, and work closely with GMP’s Safer Roads teams to find those responsible for motorbike and other two wheeled vehicle crime in Bolton.

“We understand that anti-social behaviour can be distressing to our communities, especially during unprecedented times such as these, and I would encourage anyone who has any concerns to please report it to ourselves, as this helps us to build a picture of any problematic areas and allows us to take the necessary action to minimise the impact this can have on the communities."

To report of anti-social behaviour visit the GMP website or call 101.

Alternatively, phone the independent charity CrimeStoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Always call 999 in an emergency.