Police say clampdown on motorcycle nuisance in Havant has seen results

Operation Herd was launched last month in Havant as a response by the Barncroft and Bedhampton Neighbourhood Policing Team to 43 reports made since August of mopeds, motorbikes, mini motos and GoPeds causing problems in the area.

Many of these reports related to teenagers using a field in Dunsbury Hill Farm as an impromptu racetrack with no regard to other members of the public.

Two 16-year-old boys were issued with Section 59 warnings for using vehicles in a manner causing alarm, distress or annoyance, in Bidbury Mead.

Other teenagers present were warned of the risks of riding vehicles in an irresponsible manner.

Sergeant Garry Smith said: ‘I’d like to thank residents who got behind this operation.

‘The two 16-year-olds and their motorbike were easily identified following information provided to us by members of the public.

‘We have tried to balance enforcement with education as some teenagers think they aren’t committing an offence if riding off-road. However this behaviour has caused real concern for residents.’