MINI motorbike pests were given a dressing down by police in front of their parents following a spate of incidents when the bikes were being ridden illegally.

Police received four complaints from residents in Kidderminster and Stourport on Saturday afternoon, about the nuisance being caused by youngsters on the bikes.

Despite their small engines, they are classed as motor vehicles and governed by the same legal regulations as normal motorcycles and mopeds.

"Several young boys were spoken to in the presence of their parents after complaints on Saturday," said Wyre Forest beat manager, PC Dan Wood.

"Many children and parents are still unaware they are not allowed to ride these bikes on pavements or local authority land, such as parks, and are committing offences under the Road Traffic Act.

"It could lead to the bikes being seized if they are causing alarm, distress or annoyance.

"We don't want to be spoilsports but, as spring approaches and the nights get lighter, we do not want this to become a major problem."