A SHOPPING centre has become one of the first in the country to ban youngsters from riding micro-scooters in its malls.

Bosses at the Cornmill Centre, in Darlington, have slapped warning posters on its entrances.

Thousands of the lightweight aluminum scooters (pictured left), which cost between £40 and £100, have been sold over Christmas to youngsters across the country.

Albion Small, manager of the Cornmill, said: "They are dangerous in an enclosed atmosphere like a shopping centre.

"We are responsible for health and safety if an accident happens,which is why we have decided to say 'no' to these scooters."

The Cornmill's stance was backed by Dave Ward, manager of the Cleveland Centre, in Middlesbrough.

He said: "The scooters can be dangerous for other members of the public, especially when it is busy."

While bylaws in shopping centres often refer to roller skates and skateboards, micro scooters are not mentioned by name.

Reg Enderby, retail operations manager with Toymaster, which has a branch in the Cornmill, said the scooters were a best seller.

"It is a phenomenon. Every year there is a craze and this is it," he said.

"I have had a go on my son's and if they are used according to the instructions, they are safe.

"Obviously if there are gangs of people dashing around on them in precincts they can be a nuisance.

"But we've sold dozens and not had a single problem."