TWO off-road motorcycles were seized by police in Newton Tony on Sunday.

The action followed numerous complaints from the residents and the parish council about antisocial behaviour by motorcyclists throughout the village. Newton Tony is surrounded by a network of bridleways, byways and footpaths which police say are being regularly used illegally by motorcyclists, causing great distress and annoyance to walkers, horse riders, cyclists and dog walkers alike.

PC Ivor Noyce of Amesbury Police said: “Riding a motorcycle on footpaths and bridleways is against the law, likewise any motorcycle being ridden on a byway or highway requires the rider to have the appropriate driving licence, the motorcycle to be taxed and have a current MOT with correct insurance.

“It is not acceptable for local residents to have to suffer the actions of irresponsible motorcyclists and offenders will be dealt with robustly.”

Anyone planning to go off-roading in any vehicle is urged to make themselves aware of the law and plan their route accordingly.