Police are warning of the dangers of riding motorcycles and mini motos without safety helmets.

The warning comes after a number of reports of dangerous riding in North Bournemouth.

Over the past six months Dorset Police has seen a significant increase in reports and complaints about bikes being ridden on parks and side roads at excess speed.

The worst affected areas are West Howe, Northbourne and Redhill.

Sergeant Lee Tharme said: “Since March we've seen an increase of 50 calls to us about nuisance bikes at these locations.

“Before that we only received periodic calls.

“The general nature of the reports is nuisance bikes either being ridden on the parks or side roads at excess speed, with the riders normally not wearing helmets. The majority of reports describe trial or off-road bikes as opposed to mini motos, although the latter are still an issue in some cases.

“The use of such vehicles on public open spaces is both dangerous for the rider and the public. We will seize any bikes being ridden unlawfully and prosecute the riders.”

Police are also asking for the assistance of local residents to help identify the bikes and riders, and also any routes that are being affected on a regular basis.

Sergeant Tharme urged the public to contact 101 or the Safer Neighbourhood Team pages on the Force website if they have any useful information.