They have become the scourge of many neighbourhoods and last night owners of mini-motorbikes in Lowestoft were warned their machines could be crushed if they are not used properly.

They have become the scourge of many neighbourhoods and last night owners of mini-motorbikes in Lowestoft were warned their machines could be crushed if they are not used properly.

Police have reported particular problems in the south of the town and yesterday two seized bikes were crushed as part of an operation to send out a warning to offenders.

Insp Terry Jones, of the South Lowestoft Neighbourhood team, said: “Despite manufacturers' guidelines that state they are sold for off-road use and should be used only under close supervision, the machines are often bought as toys and illegally used on the roads, regardless of the dangers to those riding them, pedestrians and other road users.

“We often receive calls from residents expressing concerns about their use and, for safety reasons, riders need to be aware that to be legally used on a road or public highway, any vehicle must be registered, taxed and subject to MoT regulations.”

Insp Jones added that riders on the road must have number plates and lights fitted, be aged over 16, wear a crash helmet and hold a valid driving licence and insurance documents.

The bikes can only be ridden on private land with the consent of the landowner and cannot be used on public areas such as footpaths and parks.

Under the Police Reform Act 2002, officers have the power to seize the bikes after the first written warning is given. If the offence is repeated within 12 months, the motorbike will be seized by police under section 59 and 60 of the act.

Once a machine has been seized, it can cost the owner more than £100 to get it back and registration, insurance and identification documents must be presented. If this does not happen with 21 days, the police can arrange for the bike to be crushed.

Yesterday's event took place at C.R Hales, in Pinbush Road, on the South Lowestoft Industrial Estate.