YOUNGSTERS are putting themselves at risk by riding pedal bikes and motorcycles dangerously, police have warned.

Since Christmas Day, police in Easington have noticed a large increase in the number of complaints being made about off-road motorcycles and quad bikes.

The incidents involving motorcycles have taken place on designated cycle ways, public spaces such as village greens, playing fields and farmland, when youngsters have committed trespass or criminal damage offences as well as harming the environment.

Another concern for the anti-social behaviour unit, set up by the police and Easington District Council to deal with issues affecting people's quality of life, is the number of young pedal cyclists going out without lights, putting themselves and others at serious risk.

Sergeant Dave Young, a member of the anti-social behaviour unit at Peterlee police station, said: "It is only a matter of time before we are dealing with a serious accident involving an off-road bike or an unlit pedal cycle.

"I urge parents to pay more attention to what their children are doing."

Police believe the problems have escalated because of children receiving bikes for Christmas.

Sgt Young said: "Traditionally, it is every child's dream to get a bicycle at Christmas. Unfortunately, many are being taken out without lights and therefore become a potentially fatal machine in the dark on busy roads.

"One night alone just after Christmas, I must have spoken to about a dozen young cyclists who were riding around without any lights. I do not want to inform a mother or father that their child has been injured."

The unit can be contacted for advice and information on 0191-586 2621, extension 2559.