Merseyside Police is reminding people of the dangers of the illegal use of motorcycles and off-road bikes and urging parents and guardians to think seriously before purchasing them as gifts this Christmas.



We have issued a film created by an 11-year-old boy which highlights the dangers of off-road bikes and motorcycles, in a bid to make people consider the risks and potential consequences of using them. (Bottom of page.)

Chief Inspector Gary O’Rourke said: “The images in this video, which have been created by an 11-year-old child, really demonstrate that the illegal use of off-road bikes and motorcycles affects everyone in our communities.

“Although the Force’s messages in the video remain the same, it offers a new perspective, that of a child, on the dangers of these bikes and I really hope it makes people stop, think and reconsider before purchasing one as a Christmas present this year. If a child can recognise the risks, surely parents, guardians and family members can too.

Through the force’s Operation Brookdale campaign, which focuses on reducing the illegal use of these motorcycles and bikes, we are committed to addressing the nuisance they cause to our communities. At this time of year, it’s vital that people think seriously about the potential risks before purchasing an off-road bike or motorcycle as a gift. I can’t stress enough that these bikes are not toys and when used illegally they can have serious and even fatal consequences.

"If you have information on where they are being stored, where they are regularly being ridden, and what vehicles are transporting them – let us know, report online, call Crimestoppers, or send a message to us on social media. We will take action whenever we can to remove dangerous vehicles from the streets."

Anyone with information on who is using these bikes and where they are being stored is asked to contact @MerPolCC, to call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.