WORRIED parents who have bought youngsters mini-motor bikes for Christmas have been advised to check guidelines for their use.

The head of Durham Police's motorcycle section had earlier warned that the 50cc machines could be seized if they were ridden illegally.

Sergeant Bob Brown said the force had responded to a rise in complaints about illegal use of the mini-motos and mini-quad bikes, which cost £200 to £300.

Following "yellow card" warnings, 20 have been seized, and Sgt Brown urged parents to outline to their sons and daughters when they can be ridden.

"The size of them suggests to some people they are a toy, but the simple fact is they are petrol-driven, mechanically-propelled and therefore must comply with the law," he said.

"Riders can only go off-road on private land with the owner's permission. It is an offence to ride on playing fields or parkland.

"The noise from them can be very intrusive. They can cause damage and any pedestrian involved in a collision or, indeed, the riders themselves, could be seriously hurt."

Riders must be at least 16 with a provisional moped licence, or 17 with an equivalent motorcycle licence, to use them on a road, public footpath or bridleway.

They also need insurance, tax, protective headgear, and MoT certificates for machines more than three years old.

In the wake of concerned calls from parents following his earlier warning, Sgt Brown said the full details of legal use of mini-motos could be found on the force's Bikewise website.

He said colourful posters are also available for display in youth clubs and community centres outlining the law relating to mini motos. Approved clubs and centres for riding the machines are also listed.

Details are available on www. durham.police.uk/bikewise