POLICE are warning motorbike riders who have been causing nuisance for residents in Sherborne Fields, Popley and other areas around Basingstoke.

Following a number of complaints from many parts of the town, police along with community safety patrol officers and Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council (BDBC) have now increased their patrols in key locations to catch the nuisance bikers.

Police said the bikes in question are not road legal and are not displaying vehicle registration plates.

A spokesperson for Basingstoke Town Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “We have seen a recent increase in reports of nuisance motorbikes operating in the areas of Sherborne Fields and Popley as well as other areas around Basingstoke.

“It is illegal and dangerous to ride such motorbikes on the road, on public footpaths and through local woodlands.”

Since these motorbikes are operating without number plates, police have been finding it difficult to catch them using CCTV cameras.

Police said the motorbike riders risk injuring other road users, cyclists, pedestrians as well as themselves.

“This type of bike can only be used on private roads or land with the road or land-owner’s permission.

“Police along with the Community Safety Patrol Officers at B&DC have increased patrols in these areas. Police can seize bikes if caught being used in an anti-social manner.

“If you have any information including descriptions of the bikes and/or riders, please report it online (Report antisocial behaviour | Hampshire Constabulary) or call 101.”