A CRACKDOWN has been launched on off-road bikers who cause a nuisance in Leigh, Atherton and Tyldesley.

Wigan Council has joined forces with Greater Manchester Police to stop individuals using public and private land to race their bikes.

Wigan Police Traffic Inspector Andy Eckersley said: "The use of these bikes off-road is not only illegal, but is a danger and a nuisance to members of the community who are out walking.

"We will do everything in our power to make sure that complaints about motorbikes or quad bikes riding off-road are investigated. Wherever possible, we will seize these bikes and prosecute offenders."

From next February, police may seize any nuisance vehicles, including off-road motorbikes, and impound or confiscate them permanently.

Ashley Crumbley, Wigan Council's environmental health deputy director, said "The council's surveillance capabilities, which include covert mobile CCTV and professional witnesses, will be used to support the police. We now understand they are using a helicopter and a light aircraft to track and catch these people."

The council can also use legal options, including court orders to curb anti-social behaviour.

Residents can anonymously identify problem bikers by calling Wigan Police Traffic Unit on 0161 856 7074, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.