A MAN is facing a possible court appearance after being caught riding an off-road motorbike on residential streets in Bolton.

The driver was spotted in Lever Edge Lane, Great Lever, yesterday by a sergeant from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) who was out on patrol.

The sergeant managed to apprehend the individual, who was driving a new four wheeler quad racing bike without insurance. The vehicle has been seized.

Greater Manchester Police's traffic unit tweeted about the action taken yesterday: "SCIU sergeant has been out today and caught this driver testing out his new toy — a Wonjan 150cc — in Lever Edge Lane, Bolton.

"Not only did he forget insurance he forgot his name too, you can't kid the sergeant and so he's landed himself a day in court. #ObstructPolice#NoInsurance #GMPSCIU."

Policing teams across Bolton have been holding regular weekends of targeted action against nuisance motorcyclists.

Major police operations were carried out across the north and west of Bolton in October last year and April this year in response to complaints from residents about off-road bikes, scooters, motorcycles and quad bikes.

In the three months leading to April this year, the police received more than 80 reports of anti-social behaviour in these areas — though the actual number of offences is thought to be much higher.

Police are increasingly using their powers conferred in Section 59 of the Police and Reform Act 2002. These powers allow an officer to seize and remove a vehicle. However, the police cannot seize a vehicle without first warning the driver that it will be seized if inconsiderate driving persists.