By Jean Kingdon

YOUNGSTERS enjoying the latest craze - riding powerful mini-motorcycles capable of more than 30mph - are putting the lives of themselves and others at risk in a south Shropshire town.

Children as young as 10 have been tearing along Craven Arms' roads, pavements and other public places on the 50cc motorcycles.

They don't wear any protective clothing or helmets and are an accident could result in very serious injuries, say police. Officers stress that the bikes should be used only on private land as they are not insured or licensed for use in public places, including playing fields.

"We really have had a problem with these small motorbikes in and around Craven Arms," said PC Nik Turner.

"The bikes are very small replicas of road-going or race bikes and capable of 30mph or more.

"They are usually fitted with 'slick' tyres without any tread.

"Riding them on the road or any other public place is an offence and people risk being convicted.

"As these vehicles cannot be insured, anyone injured as a result of using them is open to a civil prosecution for damages.

"Costs can also be levied at the parents of those responsible."

Some 20 of the bikes, which do not have number plates or safety features such as mirrors, have been sold in the Craven Arms area in the past few weeks.

"Parents and others buying these machines may not be aware they must not be used in a public place," warned PC Turner.

"Some people who have been spoken to by police have indicated they were under the impression that using them on the Long Lane Industrial Estate or the playing fields was legal. This is not the case."