E-bikes could be seized after St Dennis recreation ground damage

Churned-up grass on a recreation ground used by young children has put a group of e-bike riders in St Dennis firmly on the police radar.

Officers say they have been in contact with St Dennis Parish Council about e-bikes being ridden in the evenings on the recreation ground off Fore Street. The riding has caused extensive damage to the turf.

Riders believed to be local young people

St Austell Police said the riders are believed to be young people from the village.

Enquiries are under way to identify those responsible, and targeted patrols in the area are being stepped up.

Prosecution and seizure warning

Police say anyone identified as a suspect will be liable for prosecution for road traffic and criminal damage offences.

And the bikes themselves are at risk. Any e-bikes linked to suspects are liable to be seized under powers available to police through the Road Traffic Act and the Police Reform Act.

A direct appeal to riders and parents

Officers have spoken directly to the riders, and to their parents, asking them to take responsibility and make sure the e-bikes are not ridden on the road or in public places.

They pointed out that the recreation ground is well used by the local community, including young children.

How to help the investigation

Anyone with information is asked to contact police using the Devon and Cornwall Police online form for adding information to a crime report, quoting reference 50260288927.