A DRIVE to curb the menace of off-road bikers has proved a success to improve the lives of pedestrians and other residents in affected areas.

Warning notices were issued to more than a dozen people during a single day as the attempted crackdown on off-road motor menaces continues in east Durham.

One off-road rider had his bike seized and 13 people were given formal warnings for their nuisance behaviour in just seven hours.

It is part of a joint effort between Durham Police and Durham County Council as part of the Safe Durham Partnership scheme to reduce problems posed by off-road bikers and drivers behaving irresponsibly.

The on-going enforcement operation, supported by the council’s East Durham Area Action Partnership, involves increased patrols by police officers, community support officers and neighbourhood wardens.

It is focusing on acting on information about the antics of off-roaders provided by affected members of the public.

Chief Inspector Andy Huddleton said: "The riding or driving of off-road vehicles in unsuitable areas can cause a real disturbance to residents.

"By making this an on-going operation, we want offenders to realise that we won’t give up on our aim of stamping out this nuisance."

During one shift, three people were given warning notices for anti-social behaviour while riding in Ryhope Woods, at Seaham, and two others received warnings after being spotted in the town’s Princess Road.

The drivers of two Suzuki Vitaras were warned for causing damage to the beach banks at Horden, deemed a site of Special Scientific Interest.

It emerged that one of the two vehicles was also unregistered.

One motorcyclist received a warning notice for minor offences while riding on the Coast Road, at Blackhall, while two more were given warnings and advice after their repeated visits to Shotton Pond were deemed as causing a nuisance to local residents.

Another three riders were warned for their bad behaviour after being stopped while riding in Shotton Colliery.

Police seized one of the bikes, which was suspected as stolen.

The force has pledged to continue the drive to quell the problem and hopes to act on further reports from the public.

Anyone witnessing bad driving and off-road nuisance problems can contact police on 0345-60 60 365.