Off-road police patrols have stopped motorcyclists causing a nuisance in the countryside.

Throughout May officers from Broadland targeted people using motorbikes on public land, particularly in and around Aylsham and Reepham.

Following increased patrols in problem areas 14 warnings were given and one vehicle seized.

Some of the warnings give police officers the power to impound bikes if riders or their vehicles are stopped in similar circumstances within 12 months or receiving the warnings.

During the patrols a rider was also reported for having no tax, insurance, licence, riding without a helmet and registration plates.

Police said that as a result of the patrols, there was a 60pc reduction in calls from the public relating to vehicle related anti-social behaviour with 15 incidents reported in April compared to six in May.

Sgt Helen Howes, from the Broadland Operational Partnership Team, said: 'Last year we had large numbers of calls from members of the public regarding people riding vehicles unsafely and unlawfully, impacting on residents' quality of life.'

People with any concerns about off-road biking or who would like to report nuisance vehicles in Broadland or other parts of Norfolk, should call the police on the non-emergency number 101.