Police are set to clampdown on motorcyclists who ride illegal off-road bikes in public areas.

Officers from Greater Manchester Police's specialist team, Operation Comenca, flooded areas in Astley Bridge, Breightmet and Tonge Moor last week searching for off-road bikers and speaking to residents.

But the visit is set to be the first of many as Bolton's neighbourhood policing team targets these illegal vehicles through a summer crackdown.

The officers bring their own motorcycles and chase down any off-road bikers that are spotted in areas which are known to have problems.

The most recent operation, held last Wednesday, July 17, saw officers hand notices to two people who had been reported by the community. They were given warnings meaning police can immediately seize their vehicles permanently if they are spotted using them on the street again.

Neighbourhood Sergeant Dave Butcher, who helped to organise the crackdown, said his teams would be targeting key hotspots, including Leverhulme Park, in Breightmet.

He said: "The positive thing is that we have such a close relationship with Operation Comenca we have been able to organise more dates.

"This week is the start of a summer campaign to take off road bikes off the street."

Police urge the public to report any off-road bikers, or other instances of anti-social behaviour, which helps them to target their operations.

To make a report, call 101 or visit: www.gmp.police.uk.