A CRACKDOWN on dangerous motorbikes has been launched after three young riders from Bolton were killed in accidents in the last two months.

Two teenagers, 16- year-old Reece O’Neill, and Joshua Entwistle, aged 18, died after crashing into cars last month, while 22-yearold Nathan Lynch died when he came off his bike in March.

Now police are urging young riders to take care—and warning any bikes being ridden illegally can be seized and crushed.

Insp Shane O’Neill, who is in charge of collaboration between the police and Bolton Council, said he does not want to see any more deaths as he knew both Reece and Joshua.

He added: “I have seen first-hand the tragedy that can arise as a result of this activity so the message is simple — illegally ridden off-road bikes will be seized and crushed.

“Even when people are riding bikes legally, some of them are too powerful for young riders, and even a scooter can be misused and driven off-road.

“Any bike can be lethal to young riders who don’t know how to use them properly and find themselves in difficulty.”

Insp O’Neill said he also wants parents to check that their children are not using bikes illegally.

Police are now increasing patrols in hot-spot areas for offroad bikers and getting tougher on illegal riders.

Officers have also been visiting schools to talk to youngsters about the dangers of motorbikes.

They explain that motorcycles must have tax, insurance and an MOT to be used on the road, and can only be used on private land with the owner’s permission.

Police have the power to seize and crush any bike that is being used “anti-socially”.

Anyone with information about illegal offroad biking or nuisance riders can call police on 0161 8725050 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.