Information on Loughborough

Warnings for motorcyclists using Western Park

Posted on 21/08/2009

police,constabulary,leicestershire police Warnings for motorcyclists using Western Park

Police are reassuring users of Western Park that they are taking action to tackle youths riding motorbikes on the park land.

Visitors and regular users of the park have reported an increase in the number of motorbikes being ridden illegally, causing a disturbance and putting safety at risk. 

The issue has been a number one priority for the neighbourhood team for several months and officers are stepping up measures to identify those responsible and take necessary action against them. 

PCSO Sally-Ann Morgan is dedicating her time to patrolling Western Park over the summer months. She said: “We have seized several motorbikes being ridden illegally and recovered two stolen motorbikes from the park in the past couple of months. We also have a list of about 20 people who we believe could be responsible. Many of those have been visited at their homes by officers and given a warning. 

“Clearly this is an ongoing problem and we are very aware of the negative impact it is having on users of the park and the frustration they are feeling. This week I have met with the Council’s parks department to discuss the issue and look at ways of resolving it. I have also been in contact with the cricket clubs who use the park and whose matches have been disrupted. 

“I am dedicating the majority of my time to the park to provide a visible policing presence, to reassure the public and to ensure that officers are on hand to deal with issues as they arise. We will be filming those involved and also have covert operations planned to try to identify those responsible. 

“We want all users of the park to be able to enjoy it, without disruption from motorbikes. We are urging anyone who experiences these problems or has any information about those responsible to call the police immediately.”

Alan Brown, Senior Parks Officer said “We have been working with the police to reduce illegal motorbike activity for some time now, and it is a shame that a small minority are spoiling a visit to the park for the vast majority of park users. We have increased the number of patrols by park staff and would encourage anybody who sees any motorbikes on the park to contact the police.”

Anyone with information about the illegal use of motorbikes on Western Park is urged to call PCSO 6094 Sally–Ann Morgan Leicestershire Constabulary on 0116 222 2222. Follow the instructions to leave a message and when prompted key in the officer’s identification number 6094.