PARENTS have been urged to think carefully before buying mini motorbikes for their children this Christmas.

Thames Valley Police and West Oxfordshire District Council have also promised to come down hard on anyone who is found riding the bikes illegally.

PC Michelle Ryan from Thames Valley Roads Policing said: "There appears to be a lot of confusion over the lawful use of mini motos and go-peds in public places.

"I'd advise people to treat these bikes as mopeds, they need the same documentation.

"It does not matter if the bikes are petrol or battery operated. They should only be ridden with the land owner's permission and not on public roads or footpaths."

Mini-motos and petrol-driven go-peds can only be driven on private land, unless the vehicle and rider have the right documentation and are road legal.

To ride on the public highway, the rider needs a driving licence, insurance and must wear a helmet. The bike needs to be registered, have a number plate and an MOT certificate.

Riders must also have insurance for any passengers they might carry on the bike.

PC Ryan advised parents who were unsure of the law to look on the internet, check with a garage or their local police station.

She said: "If you decide to ride on the highway the vehicle is your responsibility and ignorance is not an excuse."

Any vehicles ridden illegally risk being seized by police, and the owners can be charged for recovery and storage costs as well as face prosecution.

PC Sam Delahay, Witney's neighbourhood coordinator, said the police often received complaints from members of the public about the anti-social nuisance caused by people riding the mini-motorbikes on public land.

He said: "Across West Oxfordshire the police officers and council will be clamping down on all who break the law.

"If you are stopped and you are not road legal you will face prosecution. This is for your safety and the safety of others who are liable to get hurt."

Police are also advising sellers of the vehicles that buyers need to be advised about the law before they buy the bikes.