One of the bikes was spotted by PC Mark Barry on the Oxmoor estate on May 12 being driven on pavements and without insurance.

The rider had already been given a warning for riding the bike unlawfuly, so the vehicle was seized, and yesterday crushed at The Foundary, in Ramsey.

PC Barry said: "This mini moto was being ridden on pavements in Thames Road and then on a footpath at the back Surrey Road and Kent Road towards Sallowbush Road.

"It was finally stopped in Saunders Close. The rider was reported to the Crown Prosecution Service and the bike has now been crushed.

"Nuisance vehicle incidents are one of the priorities for the area. Anyone else found to be riding a mini moto irresponsibly will also be dealt with by police.

"This is one of many which have been seized across the force. This is going to be an up and coming issue through the summer.

"If a member of the public sees anyone riding these bikes on public land, please report it to police with any details you have."

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0845 456 456 4 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.