Police have warned illegal bikers blighting the Trans Pennine Trail that their motorbikes may be seized.

The Kendray and Worsborough Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) and officers from South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue have erected 13 signs along a stretch of the Trans Pennine Trail from Wigfield Farm at Worsborough to Wombwell and Stairfoot.

The signs warn bikers using land illegally that off-road or quad bikes will be seized under Section 59-60 of the Police Reform Act 2002. Once seized, bikes are taken to an Auto Recovery compound when owners have to buy back their vehicle for £150 plus £20 per day storage charges.

If owners do not recover bikes after 21 days, they are crushed.

PCSO Stuart Kiley, of the SNT, said: “Illegal bikers using the Trans Pennine Way are a big problem as it causes a general nuisance to members of the public, such as walkers and cyclists, or for anyone that may live close by.

“But this new scheme is a massive deterrent and we will be patrolling the area regularly as a further deterrent to illegal bikers. We have not confiscated any bikes yet but expect to see them used more often now we have longer and lighter evenings. I hope that the message will get out there that off-road or quad bikes are not welcome on the Trans Pennine Trail. “

Bikers are only allowed to ride off-road or quad bikes if the landowner has given direct permission. There are no legal designated areas in Barnsley.

Advice for off-road vehicle users:

• Think carefully before buying a machine. Off road vehicles must be registered, taxed and insured
• Contact Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council for a list of areas where you can ride legally in South Yorkshire. There are no legal off-road bike tracks in Barnsley.
• Consider your personal responsibilities. You can be prosecuted if you are irresponsible
• Consider joining an organised motorbike group

To contact the Kendray and Worsborough SNT call 01226 736387, where you can leave a message, or log onto www.southyorkshire.police,where you can enter your postcode.