POLICE have warned off-road racers their motorbikes could be seized as part of a crackdown on illegal scrambling in the Moorlands.

Patrols are being stepped up at Huntley Wood, near Cheadle, and Hardiwick Quarry – also known as Tick Hill Quarry – at Caverswall after a spate of complaints from residents who say they are tormented by the sound of motorbike engines and distressed by the damage the scramblers leave in their wake.

Sergeant Nick Morris said: "We will be increasing our presence in the area and educating those who take part in this activity.

"There is legislation which gives police the power to seize any vehicle being used in an anti-social manner in appropriate circumstances.

"We are also going to be working with partner agencies to seek a long-term resolution to this problem."