Northumbria Police gift warning over mini-motos

Police said miniature motorcycles were not toys

Northumbria Police has advised parents against buying mini motos for their children at Christmas, unless they have a safe and legal place to ride them.

As they are motor vehicles they must be taxed, insured and, if over three years old, have a valid MoT certificate.

Otherwise they can only be ridden off-road on private land with the landowner's permission.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said that people should think carefully and not make an expensive mistake.

He said: "It's important people know they are not toys. They are motor vehicles and should be treated as such.

"It could be a Christmas present which can't be used properly or safely."