OWNERS of the latest travelling craze could find themselves on the wrong side of the law.

E-scooters, powered by small electric or petrol motors, are the latest fad for people who want an alternative to walking.

But what owners do not realise is they are flouting the law each time they ride them on the pavement without wearing a helmet, insurance or road tax.

This is because the manufacturers say the scooters are not for use on roads, and they avoid compliance with the Road Traffic Act 1988.

But police and Trading Standards have warned that even pavements count as roads and riders are legally bound to comply with the act.

Hereford Police have already stopped and cautioned several owners after they received reports the scooters were being used on roads, pathways and pavements.

"Anyone riding an E-scooter should be aged 16-years or over, the scooter should be licensed and insured and have road tax and, to comply with health and safety, a helmet should be worn," said PC Colin Mears of Herefordshire Police.

There are a number of different E-scooter models on sale and they cost between £150 and £200 each.

Cris Steele from Herefordshire Trading Standards, said consumers should be aware the scooters were classed as motor vehicles and they should check with the retailer that the scooter was suitable for its intended use.

"Anyone intending to purchase an E-scooter should discuss its use with the retailer who should, in turn, explain that they are not intended for road use," he said.

For more information, telephone PC Colin Mears at Hereford Police Station on 08457 444 888 or contact Herefordshire Trading Standards on 01432 260764.