POLICE have vowed to clamp down on the dangerous antics of off-road bikers who are causing a nuisance in Neilston, writes David Carnduff.

This follows public complaints about noise and the risks the machines pose when taken onto public roads.

Neilston Community Council was told at its latest meeting that police had already seized two off-road bikes from riders and the situation is being continually monitored.

Police Constable James McGoldrick told the meeting that bikers were going on busy roads to get to three fields adjacent to the village and then riding there without permission.

He said: “They are bombing up and down and there is a considerable nuisance factor.

“In addition to the noise, these machines are often used in a manner which poses risks to the users and bystanders, particularly when taken onto public roads.”

Community councillor Jim Sheriff said many villagers have found the bikers’ antics intimidating.

“Sometimes the noise of the bikes can go on for four hours,” he added.

Police have also asked villagers to play their part in helping officers put the brakes on the bikers.

Constable McGoldrick said: “We will be glad to receive any information from the public about people using off-road bikes in the Neilston area, including registration numbers of vehicles being used to transport off-road bikes and any places where they may be stored when not in use.”

Community council members thanked the police for their efforts to tackle the problem.