A JOINT operation has seen several off-road bikes seized and riders fined for breaching coronavirus lockdown regulations. 

Alongside Greater Manchester police, officers from Rossendale undertook an operation on Sunday to target the problem of off-road scrambler bikes and 4x4 vehicles using common land. 

As a result of the operation, several off-road bikes were seized and riders were issued with fines for their behaviour. 

A force spokesman said: "Rossendale Police have today undertaken a joint operation with GMP to target the problem of off-road scrambler bikes and 4x4’s using the moorland as a playground without consideration to walkers, horse riders, farmers and members of the public out enjoying the beautiful countryside. 

"The activity of off-roading on moorland and common land is illegal, causes damage to the moorland, disturbs wildlife and livestock and causes annoyance to members of the public who report their concerns to us. 

"Working with GMP, United Utilities and volunteers we have seized several off-road bikes, a van used to transport such bikes, reported several riders for offences under the Road Traffic Act such as riding on Common Land, issued S.59 warnings and issued fines for breaching Covid rules. 

"For those that want to undertake off-roading, perhaps is now a good time to mention that there are several leisure locations were this activity can be enjoyed legally"