Mini-moto track move to curb nuisance yobs

A mini-moto track could be created in Sandwell to stop youngsters tearing around the streets and churning up fields.

Police are considering the plan following complaints from people living in West Bromwich.Officers have already stepped up patrols to tackle anti-social behaviour and clamp down on gangs of youths.

Sgt Jamie Needle, who covers the Charlemont and Stone Cross areas, said: "Local residents have recently reported a number of incidents regarding anti-social behaviour in and around Kelverley Grove.

"This has including mini-moto nuisance and abusive comments from young people towards residents of the Grove."We have increased patrols in this area in a bid to tackle issues, and further action will be taken against perpetrators of anti-social behaviour."

A designated area for mini-motos is currently being looked into by the team and various partners."Kelverley Grove has proved a hotspot for mini-moto riders as it is surrounded by open space near the M5. Sgt Bob Harthill, of West Bromwich Road Policing Unit, said there was a problem in the area with youngsters tearing around on the bikes.

Mini-motos have long been a scourge of Sandwell.

Late last year, 47 mini-motorbikes were crushed by police after being seized across the borough in Wednesbury, Tipton and West Bromwich.

The Tame Valley canalbank was highlighted as another troublespot and warnings to bikers were issued 49 times with four stolen machines recovered.

The Express & Star reported yesterday how yobs on off-road bikes had destroyed parts of Sheepwash Nature Reserve in Great Bridge, which is currently undergoing a £500,000 revamp.

The riders have been tearing up the grass and racing around the reserve, just off Great Bridge High Street.

Police have already seized two bikes from youths at the beauty spot this week that will now be taken away and crushed.