POLICE have increased patrols in rural parts of the county to target illegal off-road motoring.

North Wales Police launched the operation in collaboration with Natural Resources Wales (NRW) in Denbighshire, and rural parts of Wrexham, following residential complaints about motorbikes and 4x4 vehicles being used off-road.

Illegal off-roading can involve trespassing or using public spaces, which poses a safety hazard to members of the public and the drivers themselves. It can also cause environmental damage, such as ruining vegetation and disrupting wildlife.

The force made 15 successful stops on the weekend of June 22-23, for offences including illegal number plates and uninsured driving.

Sergeant Martin Jones, of North Wales Police, said: “Riding off road motorbikes can be very popular - however, these vehicles can also be used in a dangerous, noisy and anti-social way, generating lots of complaints to police.

“There are signs in place, but people are choosing to ignore them.”

Police are authorised to seize bikes and cars which are used in a way that causes harassment, alarm or distress under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act.

A first warning is normally given, but repeat offending can result in seizure.

Vehicles can also be taken if the rider is not insured or has no road tax.

Sgt Jones added: “Anyone found to be undertaking illegal off-road activity on a footpath or bridleway may be liable to prosecution.

“We will continue to work closely with our colleagues at NRW to carry out operations where we will seize and crush illegal off-road vehicles.”

Off-roading enthusiasts can visit a commercial motorsports site, off-road centre or reputable off-roading club, which adhere to public rights of way.

Anybody with information regarding the use of illegal off-road vehicles should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.