Operation Dragster - Off Road Activity - Sunday 1st Feb

Update from Sgt Walsh -

The Pennine Neighbourhood Beat Officers and PCSOs along with Rochdale North carried out off road bike patrols across Rochdale North and East on Sunday 1st February. Officers responded to reports of a Quad Bike which had collided with a vehicle at Knacks Lane, Prickshaw Village. 

The Quad Bike involved was seized as it was not insured and the rider, who was a 14 year old child, was dealt with for any Road Traffic Offences. Thankfully there were no injuries reported. The child's parent had dropped them off and returned later to pick them up. Needless to say strong words of advice were issued. 

This is the second week in a row that we have detained a child on an off road vehicle, we would strongly encourage parents to only allow their children to ride these vehicles at approved locations where they are supervised by people who are experienced and can facilitate this sort of activity in a safe environment. It is clearly extremely irresponsible, as well as illegal, for parents to allow their children to be riding around on roads and bridleways as highlighted by the fact that this quad bike has crashed into a vehicle.

The Quad bike and some other off roaders have also driven along Knacks Lane while they have been in the area. This is a Restricted By Way and the only people who are legally allowed to use it are the residents (who have to maintain the road at their own cost) and those who have  legitimate reason to visit a premises in that area eg delivery or someone working there. There are signs which clearly state this and we will be challenging people who are using the lane as a cut through as it is causing the road to deteriorate rapidly. 

We will take positive action against repeat offenders which could include Section 59 Police Reform Act Warnings (Vehicle can be seized if it is driven in an anti social manner for a second time) reporting for offence of Section 34 Road Traffic Act - riding a vehicle on prohibited land, and also potentially £100 fines for breaching the Public Space Protection Order which is in place across Rochdale District. Please do not use this road unless you have a legal right to do so.