Calls for clampdown on mini-bikes

Demands have today been made for the government to tighten the laws on the use of unlicensed mini-motorbikes in Northern Ireland.

In England and Wales young riders who use their bikes recklessly could have their bikes crushed and points added to their future driving licences, and calls have been made for the same penalties to be imposed here.

Reverend Albert Griffith, whose 10-year-old daughter was badly injured when she was struck by one of the bikes, today said that adults should be fined up to £1000 if their children are found driving the bikes illegally.

Mini-motorbikes can be bought on the internet for as little as £100, and are sold on the basis that they are to be used off-road.

However, children as young as six are seen driving them at up to 75mph on pavements and roadways.

Constable Bill Holden from the PSNI said that any moves to toughen laws regarding mini-motos would be welcomed by the police and added that parents should take more responsibility in ensuring that their children are supervised and are using the bikes properly.

(EF)