It is the first time powers given by the Police Reform Act 2002 have been used by the community policing team in Thatcham, Berkshire.

The scooter was seized after residents complained it was being ridden carelessly in the Kennet School area.

Its owner, who had been given previous warnings, was forced to pay a �150 fee to have his moped released.

'Reckless driving'

Inspector Pete Edwards, of Newbury police, hopes the action will stop any further anti-social driving by the teenager, who has not been identified.

He said: "Residents should not have to tolerate nuisance behaviour such as inconsiderate and reckless driving of any vehicles in their neighbourhood and I really hope that the person involved will have learnt his lesson.

"Hopefully, the risk of having to pay an expensive fine, plus any costs for storage that may arise, will also deter any other people from behaving in a similar manner.

"We warned that this was a step which could be taken but this is the first time it has been done.

"Hopefully it demonstrates that we will not hesitate to use this option, where appropriate and necessary."

The Police Reform Act, which received Royal Assent on 24 July, 2002, enhanced police powers to deal with the anti-social use of motor vehicles on public roads or off-road.