Petrol stations in Swansea have been told not to sell fuel to underage motorcyclists in an attempt to tackle the growing problem of irresponsible off-roaders.

It follows a rise in the number of complaints to police about noisy bikes and damage to open spaces such as school fields and rugby pitches.

They are causing annoyance to the public and, by driving around on open spaces, they are causing damage to school fields and rugby pitches Pc Barry Jones South Wales Police

Filling stations in the Gorseinon, Penlan and Blaenymaes areas have been targeted in the campaign.

Due to the difficulties in catching offenders, police hope to address the problem by increasing public information about the laws regarding off-road motorbikes.

Pc Barry Jones, from the Communities First policing team, explained that young people had to be aged 17 or over to get a licence to ride any type of motorbike.

"If they haven't got a licence, they can't get insured, and they can't be on the roads," he said.

He added that the number of riders was on the increase.

"It is a big problem, which has multiplied tenfold since Christmas," he said.

"They are causing annoyance to the public and, by driving around on open spaces, they are causing damage to school fields and rugby pitches.

"Parents tend not to understand the law, and basically we want to point out the rules.

"Riders tend not to use helmets as well - we need to educate people," he added.

Supportive garages

Officers have written to petrol station managers in the area to remind them that only over 16-year-olds can legally buy petrol.

The Communities First team on a visit to Blaenymaes

They have also been asked to only sell fuel to adult riders who are willing to provide personal details.

"All of the garages we have approached have been very supportive of our request, and have agreed to stop serving off-road motorcyclists," said Mr Jones.

"I hope the petrol stations will gain from the reduced risk of these motorcyclists making off without paying for their fuel, which unfortunately does happen."

Mr Jones stressed that legitimate off-road enthusiasts should not be affected by the move.

"We want enthusiasts to come and speak to police about any issues they have," he said.