DANGEROUS moped and quad bike drivers are putting residents and motorists at risk, police in Hyndburn have warned.

Residents have reported the ‘nightmare’ drivers to the police and to Hyndburn Council.

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A photo of two young people caught riding mopeds without helmets in Oswaldtwistle was posted by police on Facebook in efforts to increase safety.

Deputy mayor, Cllr Peter Britcliffe, said: “Residents have been complaining about quad bikes in different parts of the town.

Generally it seems to be younger people but I don’t think they realise the nuisance they cause.

“Whilst the vehicles create screaming noises and cause disturbance, they are also being driven very dangerously.”

“It really is infuriating.

“The reaction on Facebook just shows how worried people are about these incidents.

“I hope these warnings don’t fall on deaf ears because someone could end up getting killed.”

Oswaldtwistle Neighbourhood Police Team posted a photo of two people on social media who were caught driving without helmets.

The statement said: “We are concerned about the anti-social riding of mopeds and off-road bikes in the area.

“The safety of members of the public and other motorists is being put at risk as well as the riders themselves.

“As you can see from the photograph, they are not wearing helmets or correct clothing.

“They were also driving at excessive speeds.”

More than 120 people shared the post from Hyndburn Police’s Facebook page.

Mark Aspin said on Facebook: “I was cycling yesterday where that photo was taken. He came flying round the corner on the wrong side of the road and nearly hit me, then lost control and nearly came off.”

Michelle Everett also said: “The nightmare of the idiots that have been riding round Oswaldtwistle for the last few weeks leaves the decent folk having little sympathy.”

Resident Claire Noke said: “There are two idiots up and down Trinity Street and Roe Greave Road all the time, pulling wheelies, driving like mad men all day and all night. They will kill someone one day.”

Hyndburn Council has received reports of quad bikes being driven around Foxhill Bank, Harvey Street, Union Road and Thomas Street among others.

PCSO Matt Honey said: “We had got a big problem with bikes and off-road bikes in the area.”

“We are looking to crack down on it and identify the individuals so we can deal it.”

Burnley and Padiham Police also received reports about irresponsible driving last month. A police spokesman said on social media: “There have been a number of reports in relation to youths riding a motorbike in the Burnleywood area.

“A 16-year-old male was arrested for driving and theft offences and the bike was recovered by the Neighbourhood Policing Team.”