Mini motors can only be ridden legally on private land

An Essex police spokesman said they were now receiving daily complaints alleging dangerous and noisy use of the miniature bikes.

Two bikes have already been confiscated and if a �105 fee is not paid, they could be destroyed, he added.

But supporters of the bikes say they only become a problem when there is insufficient land for their use.

Educate parents

Mini motor campaigner Robert Brew said children had nowhere to ride them.

"I'm campaigning for a piece of waste ground because I'd sooner see children riding safely than a child being killed on the road," he added.

Anyone breaking the law faces prosecution for having no road tax and insurance and new legislation will allow the destruction of bikes.

Insp Luke Collison said: "We are trying to educate the public - especially parents - on where these vehicles can be used and the rules that apply."

An authorised site for riding mini motors and other miniature vehicles is available on land behind Braintree's Freeport shopping centre.

Insp Collison said he hoped more land owners would offer space to encourage riders to have safe fun.