Nuisance bikers are targeted (From Free Press Series)

Nuisance bikers are targeted

A LONG term strategy to tackle the problem of illegal motorcyclists has been developed by Torfaen Community Safety and Gwent Police, writes Lorna Phelan.

Last year alone the police received 1,200 complaints about on and off road bikers in Pontypool and Cwmbran.

The strategy has been launched to "deal effectively" with the antisocial behaviour, which not only affects the quality of life of local residents, but also damages the environment. The report identifies education as one of the key objectives in addressing the issues surrounding the use of motorcycles, go-peds and mini-motos both on and off road.

In conjunction with the strategy's launch, Gwent Police has been conducting an on-going operation to combat the problem, the latest phase of which took place over the weekend on Penyrheol Mountain. Inspector Jim Baker said in the 48 hours during 'Operation Cassowary' 21 people were issued with Section 59 warning notices. If the offenders are caught a second time the vehicles are seized.

Insp Baker said: "There are people of all ages on these mountain sides, and a large number of youngsters, many of whom do not know what they are doing is illegal and dangerous.

"We have to educate these children in school to make them aware of the laws and spread that through to the parents who purchase these bikes, to make them realise they are liable for their children's actions and safety." David Jeremiah, manager of community safety, said combating the problems surrounding these issues is a joint effort.

"There is the realisation that no one agency can tackle this alone," he said.

"The local authority has a responsibility for making areas safe and accessible and has to play a part in the education."

He said the strategy has also identified a need for areas where people can ride legally and this option is being investigated. Insp Baker said members of the public also have a part to play in combating the problem. If you want to report an incident telephone your neighbourhood policing team on

Pontypool and Blaenavon 01495 790452

Garndiffaith and Abersychan 01495 772540

Trevethin and Penygarn 01495 746600

Brynwern 01495 233902

New Inn, Griffithstown and Sebastopol 01495 759449

Cwmbran 01633 838111 or 01633 642088.