The crackdown on people who are involved in the illegal riding and use of 'mini-moto' motorbikes is continuing.

Action was recently taken by Thurrock Council's Anti-Social Behaviour Team against a council tenant on the Garrison Estate at Purfleet.

Although the tenant herself was not riding the bike, her nine-year-old son and her partner, were both caught on the machine - without helmets or insurance.

Under the terms of the council's Tenancy Agreement tenants - whether or not they carry out the acts themselves - are responsible for the anti-social behaviour of others living in or visiting their home and for their behaviour in the immediate surrounding area, including the whole estate.

In this case the riders were warned and a formal warning went to the tenant stating that any further occurrences will result in action that could include possession proceedings and eviction with no obligation on the council to re-house the family.

People, who ride these types of machines, as well as those who allow it, need to know that they are not allowed on the road, footpaths or any other public place under any circumstances.

People found doing so can have their bikes seized and crushed.

Cllr Sue MacPherson, the council's Cabinet member for Housing, said:
"Mini motor bikes are causing a disturbance throughout the borough and are a real issue."

"As a council we have the powers - under both civil and criminal law and under the terms of council tenancies - to take action."

"Council tenants need to realise that this type of anti-social behaviour in and around our homes will be dealt with in the strongest way. This and other examples of recent action yet again by our Anti-Social Behaviour Team demonstrate our zero tolerance stance."

"People in Thurrock want to live in a borough where they feel safe and we want to give them the reassurance that together we will stamp out anti social behaviour."

If people witness this type of behaviour they should report it to Essex Police on 01375-391212 or in an emergency dial 999.

For detailed information on anti-social behaviour visit: www.unwelcome.co.uk