Police track off-road motorbikes at heritage site

Police are using drones to crack down on the antisocial use of off-road motorcycles at a national heritage site in Cornwall.

Devon and Cornwall Police said officers had been monitoring the Poldice Valley area, near Redruth, known for its mining history, after concerns were raised by the local community.

Riders spotted from the skies were approached by officers on the ground, who carried out safety checks and advised on safe use, the force said.

Sgt Chris Vincent said the intention was not to "ruin anyone's fun" but it was important to "carry out operations like these to help keep everyone safe".

It is against the law to use vehicles such as quad bikes and trail bikes off-road in public parks or on publicly-owned land without permission from the local authority.

Officers from Falmouth, Helston and Truro deployed drones, which focused on people using motorbikes off-road without landowner permission, as well as those behaving in an "antisocial or careless manner" or in a way that could cause "alarm, distress or nuisance".

Individuals causing damage to land, wildlife habitats and public spaces were also in the force's line of sight during the operation on June 19, police said.

Three warnings were issued for the antisocial use of vehicles, alongside words of advice.

This section 59 warning means police can seize a vehicle if it is used anti-socially again within a year.

"We recognise the ongoing concerns around off-road motorbikes and the impact they have on local communities and the environment," added Vincent.

"Activity like this will continue and we will take robust action where offences are identified."

The force advised people to report sightings of anti-social off-road vehicle use.

Follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to spotlight@bbc.co.uk.