The problem of off-road bikes is growing

The force has used a �45,000 grant to buy two high-powered machines, which will be used by officers to combat the growing problem.

The Yamaha WR 250cc bikes will be used in the Derwentside area of the county, where complaints from the public have risen considerably.

A spokesman for Durham Police said: "Prior to being given the new motorbikes our ability to tackle the problem was limited because machines had to be shared from a pool.

"Now officers are operating as part of a joint action plan, with Durham County Council contributing to the cost of the scheme and Derwentside District Council erecting warning notices and limiting access to trouble spots."

'Respect others'

Pc Jonathan Hamill, who will be riding one of the bikes, said: "The best way to tackle the problem of off-road bikers is to have the use of similar machines to target the problem and we are delighted we now have some.

"Off-road bikes are a danger and a menace to people in communities across Derwentside but we hope their days are now numbered.

"We recognise there are genuine off-road enthusiasts who just want to ride their bikes, but they must still respect others and not cause damage to wildlife or environment - a key part of this scheme is education not just enforcement."

Alex Watson, leader of Derwentside District Council, said: "We continually receive complaints about off-road bikes being ridden in Derwentside.

"Aside from the noise and damage it causes, this is a highly dangerous activity which has resulted in death and injury in other areas.

"Our message is clear, scrambler bikes are not welcome in Derwentside, and we as a partnership are committed to ending this menace."