YOUNG quad bikers could be riding straight into serious trouble with their new Christmas presents.

Bury Council officers are urging parents to make sure their children "get legal and be safe" over where they ride their mini-motorbikes.

Countryside officer Graham Schoon said: "It is illegal to ride a motor vehicle in parks, public open spaces and public rights of way."

The police have powers to seize bikes, and riders must also have public liability insurance - if not, they face unlimited civil claims for damage or injury in the event of an accident.

For more information, contact the Auto Cycle Union (ACU), British Motorcycle Sport and Leisure, ACU House, Wood Street, Rugby, CV21 2AX (telephone 01788 5664000 or internet at www.acu.org.uk).