Are you legal? Motorbikes, Mini-bikes, Mopeds, Go-peds and Scooters

Avonmouth Neighbourhood Policing Team work in partnership with Bristol City Council to combat the problem of illegal motorcycling, mini-bikes, mopeds, motorised skateboards and scooters. Using these vehicles may also be classed as Anti-social Behaviour and if repeated or persistent could lead to providing evidence towards an Anti- social Behaviour Order (ASBO).

The danger

Any untrained and/or young person riding these vehicles can be a danger to themselves and others. Anyone riding where they shouldn‘t be is putting other users or pedestrians at risk. Any person who rides dangerously faces legal proceedings and possible imprisonment.

Noise nuisance

Councils have the power under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 to take action in respect of a noise nuisance caused by unreasonable use of motor vehicles used off road. Following the serving of a legal notice (an Abatement Notice) councils have the power to seize the offender's vehicle and take prosecution proceedings.

Riding on land without permission

If any of these vehicles are ridden in parks, on footpaths, in fields without the landowner's permission, the rider commits an offence of riding on land other than a road. Noise nuisance offences are also applicable when riding on such land.

Powers to seize

Under the Police Reform Act 2002, the police have the power to seize motor vehicles that are being used to cause alarm, distress or annoyance to members of the public. This includes the use of motorcycles, mini-bikes, 'go-peds', mopeds and quad bikes. Repeat offenders are warned that they may have their motor vehicle taken from them and disposed of and may have to pay the cost of recovery. Parents are warned that they might be responsible for paying fines incurred if a motor vehicle is seized from them.

Insurance

Any vehicle which includes motorbikes, mini-bikes, Go-peds and scooters needs insurance to be in a public place and road, even if the vehicle is being pushed.

Go-peds, Mini- bikes etc, what's the law?

Go-peds, citybugs, buzz-boards, motorised skateboards, and mini-motorbikes (both electric powered and petrol engined), are the most recent additions to our streets and open spaces. They are considered to be a mechanically propelled vehicle and subject to the same laws as motorcycles. They cannot be used on a road unless they conform to the law. They cannot be used on pavements, grass verges etc. These vehicles may only be used in private gardens or on land where the rider has been given permission by the landowner.

The community can assist police in tackling this problem by reporting incidents via 999 if it is an emergency or via the non emergency number 0845 456 7000.

We can’t tackle this issue without your help.

New Closed Circuit Television on Crow Lane

During 2007 a new closed circuit television system was installed along Crow Lane, replacing an old stand alone system. The Safer Bristol Partnership fund- ed the upgrade and link to the emergency control room which records footage 24/7. Staff can also monitor Crow Lane throughout the day and night moving the camer- as, zooming in and out as incidents occur.

Now 4 years on, police have been able to use the footage to arrest offenders for a num- ber of offences such as robberies, thefts, criminal damage, and ASBO breaches. Not only have we been able to use the system to bring offenders to justice but also to record incidents of AntiSocial Behaviour (ASB) which have been used to show parents exactly what their children get up to and used as evidence to gain ASBOs and injunc- tions. The CCTV system is not only there for catching offenders but also acts as a deterrent for crime and Anti Social Behaviour happening in this area.

Your Community: Safety & Environment

Henbury & Brentry has recently been experiencing a high number of burglaries throughout the Beat. The Beat Team would like to remind residents that they should ensure that their properties are locked and secured at all times. Residents should be vigilant: persons acting suspiciously and anything untoward should be reported to the Police.

The Henbury/Brentry Beat Team would like to remind all residents that a monthly Beat Surgery is held at various locations throughout the Beat. This is the residents’ opportunity to come and meet members of the Beat Team and discuss any problems that they have. The forthcoming dates are:

21st October Henbury Library 3.30 - 4.30 pm

18th November, Battersby Way 3.30 - 4.30 pm

16th December, Henbury Library 3.30 - 4.30 pm

20th January, Challendar Avenue 3.30-4.30 pm

The next Neighbourhood Forum is on Wednesday 10th November 18.00hrs at The Scout Hut, Tranmere Avenue.

Henbury & Brentry Beat Team

Show Burglars the Red Card This Summer

At last we can kick-off this summer and all enjoy the warm sunshine. We can open our doors and windows and let in the cool air, but please be careful that this is not the only thing you let in. The summer also signals one of the busiest times of year for the burglar.

Here are a few facts:

- Burglars are by and large opportunists, looking for a home that gives them the easiest way of committing their crime undetected, with the fewest obstacles possible

- 20% of all burglaries do not involve forced entry, 30% of all burglaries involve entry through a back

window.

Here are a few simple things that you can do to reduce your chances of being burgled:

Perimeter security

- Grow prickly shrubs underneath windows

- Erect a high gate across any side passage way

- Remember to keep side gates padlocked when not in use

- Keep ladders or any other climbing aids out of sight and padlocked to a secure object

- Lock away garden tools or other implements which can be used to break a window.

- Make sure that sheds and out buildings are securely locked

- Keep your hedges reasonably low so that burglars can be seen from the road

Home security

- Ensure that all ground floor windows are closed and secured when you are out or asleep (even if this is just for a short time)

- If you are at the rear of your home or in the garden make sure the front is secure

- Likewise, make sure you close and lock the rear door before answering the front door, some burglars work in pairs

- Invest in good locks for all external doors ensuring they are up to BS 3621 standard

- Consider security lights both at the front and the rear of your home

- If you live in a block of flats or multi-occupancy dwelling make sure you know who is at the door before you let them in. If in doubt keep them out

Make your home looked lived-in

- Even if you are away from home try to make your home look occupied

- Don’t let the post pile up – ask a friend or neighbour to clear it.

- Remember to cancel the milk and newspapers

- Leave your lights on a timer switch and ask someone to close the curtains at night and open them in the morning

- Leave a radio on a timer switch to make the house sound occupied

- Ask a neighbour to watch out for parcels left on the doorstep.

We wish you a safe and happy summer

Have a Safe and Happy Christmas

At Christmas, criminals can often take the opportunity of our houses being full of presents to increase their criminal activity. By following a few simple rules you can reduce your risk of becoming a victim of these opportunist criminals.
Be Safe out Christmas Shopping
· When out shopping in crowed areas beware of pickpockets. Make sure your purse or wallet is secure. Don’t carry too much cash on you. You can always get more out.
· Be careful when using cash machines. Be aware of who is around, don’t count your cash in view of other people and put the money in a safe place.
· If travelling by car make sure you park in a well lit area, lock all doors and windows and don’t leave valuables on display.
· Do not carry too many presents at once, buy what you can sensibly carry. If your hands are full you are more vulnerable. If returning to your car, make sure you put the items in the boot.
· When returning to your car, have your keys in your hand ready so you are able to get into the car quickly.
Be safe at Home
· Do not leave presents and valuables out on display. Put your presents out as late as possible on Christmas Eve.
· Make sure your house is secure when you go out and when you go to bed.
· If you are storing presents such as bikes in outside sheds, make sure the shed is secure
· Make notes of the serial numbers of bikes and electrical goods such as computers.
· Double check your household insurance covers the extra goods in the property.
· Remember on Christmas Day, after all the presents have been opened, empty boxes left outside advertise that you have new goods inside. Dispose of your packaging carefully.

Action on Crow Lane anti-social behaviour

Since the public meeting held on anti-social behaviour a few months ago, newly elected Henbury Councillor Chris Windows (Con) and prospective MP Charlotte Leslie have been working with the police, community groups and young people to begin to tackle the roots of the problem of crime and anti-social behaviour on Crow Lane.
A new youth group has been set up to tackle the problems with engaging young people and what can be done to stop young people from falling into a life of gangs and anti-social behaviour. The group of young people from Henbury School, aged between 10 and 16, helped organise and publicise their meeting. They identified drink, and easy access to alcohol as the core problem – and the thing that prevented young people from taking up opportunities presented to them. There must be a zero-tolerance clamp-down on convenience stores that supply alcohol to under-age drinkers.
The group also discussed ways of getting young people involved in sport and music, and said that having the Youth Club open more often, particularly at the weekend is very important. We have been liaising with community sports clubs with the aim of encouraging sports like boxing and football amongst potentially troublesome young people.
Chris said “The level of discussion at the youth group was very impressive. These young people are as fed up with the plague of anti-social behaviour as we are. We must not exclude, but involve young people who want to make their community a better place- because they have a lot to offer. Their insights into antisocial behaviour and youth crime are crucial to fixing the problem.”
Charlotte added “We cannot expect a simple quick-fix solution to the problems of crime and antisocial behaviour in Henbury and Brentry. But we will improve things by steadily working to build up activities for young people in the area, and by ensuring that there is always a strong police presence to keep young people in order.”
Charlotte and Chris are always on the look out for residents who think they might be able to help – whether through offering volunteering time, or expertise. So if you would like to find out more,email: chris.windows@bristol.gov.uk or telephone 0117 9736811.

Partnership working achieves positive results

As everyone will be aware, we have worked tremendously hard in Henbury to tackle anti-social behaviour and reassure the community that it is a safe place to live and shop. We know that some people are worried about the removal of the Contact Vehicle as gangs may hang about again. We will continue to work hard to ensure that that does not happen by maintaining a visible presence by the Neighbourhood Policing Team. We have been very successful through partnership working in obtaining Injunctions
and ASBOs for the ring leaders (see photo's). Although we appreciate there is more work to do in Henbury and Brentry by the Police and partner agencies, we have made a good start and will continue to target known offenders.
It is important that you support us by reporting incidents and providing statements when required. We are working together to make Henbury & Brentry a safer place to live, work and play.

Anti Social Behaviour in Henbury

“For a number of years, the police and other local service providers in Henbury have wrestled with an ever present level of anti social behaviour (ASB), often involving groups of young people at key locations in the area. Overall crime is falling, and robbery in Henbury has actually dropped by 40% compared to the same time last year, but a recent increase in ASB, coupled with media interest in a recent case, has refocused attention on Henbury. Although I am gradually increasing police resilience in the area, this should not be seen as just a police problem, and our partners within the local authority are also working with us to develop some lasting solutions. The improvement of youth provision in the area is considered a key factor for diverting the marginal offenders away from the ring leaders, who themselves will need intensive work through all the agencies. In 2009 it is my intention to add another Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) to the Henbury team, and with the return of PC Rachel Mann from maternity leave, police visibility and capacity will improve considerably. We remain committed to tackling this problem, and want the communities of Henbury to feel and be safe.”
Inspector Mark Jackson, Avon and Somerset Police

Cycling and the Law

Avonmouth Neighbourhood Policing Team are working in partnership with Bristol City Council and the community of Henbury and Brentry to reduce the number of cyclists riding on footpaths and pavements in your area. From a recent PACT (Partners and Communities Together) meeting the number of cyclists riding on the pavements and footpaths is a great concern to community members and as a result has now become a PACT priority for us to look at and if necessary enforce the laws that cover all aspects of cycling.

Pavements are for pedestrians and people using the pavement have the right to feel safe and protected from traffic, including bicycles. You may feel that you are doing no harm by cycling on the pavement and you may feel confident that you will not injure or hurt anyone. But pedestrians don’t share your confidence. Because while you know where you and your bike are going, they do not, and may believe they are in danger. It’s not easy for pedestrians to predict your exact route. They could be worried about a number of things:

• Is the cyclist headed for the same area of pavement as me?
• Has the cyclist seen me?
• Will the cyclist slow down, as they get closer?
• Will the cyclist be skilled enough to avoid me if they don’t slow down? Cycling on the pavement can be even more threatening to people with poor balance. Many of these people are older or disabled and have a constant fear of falling. Cycling on the pavement simply adds to this fear.

CYCLING ON THE PAVEMENT IS ILLEGAL

You are breaking the law when you cycle on the pavement. If you are found to be cycling on the pavement, you could have to pay an on the spot fine or be prosecuted. It is important that cyclists are familiar with the parts of the traffic law that apply to them.

Cyclists are not permitted to ride on pavements (unless specifically signed as shared use), through subways or over pedestrian crossings.

Cyclists must obey traffic signals, signs and one-way orders.

At night, cyclists must show a white light to the front and a red light and red reflector to the rear of the bicycle. The Road Vehicle Lighting Regulations require bicycles to be fitted with lights and reflectors which are clean and working, when being ridden on public roads between sunset and sunrise and at other times in conditions of severely reduced visibility.

A white front and a red rear light are required by the legislation, as are one red rear reflector and four amber pedal reflectors (for bicycles manufactured since October 1985).

Since October 2005, it has been legally permitted to ride a bicycle with a flashing light.

This is aimed at the cyclists who are cycling on the pavement that are causing a danger to pedestrians in the manner in which they are cycling.

Discretion will be used in the prosecution of offenders.

Mini-Motos and Go-Peds

Both Avon and Somerset Constabulary and Bristol City Council frequently receive calls from residents expressing concern about persons riding mini-motorcycles and go-peds in public places around Henbury and Brentry.

Mini-motos are becoming increasingly popular but many parents are unaware of how dangerous these bikes can be and what laws are in place to safeguard their use.

Children as young as 5 years old are riding them with no instruction, protective clothing or helmets and sometimes with little or no adult supervision.

• These bikes can only be ridden on private land with the express permission of the land-owners.

• They can be dangerous for both the rider and any pedestrians that may get in the way.

• It is inconsiderate and aggravating for others when they are ridden in unsuitable locations.

• Elderly people and young children or animals may be unable to get out of the way in time and could easily be hit by one of these bikes which can travel at speed.

• The consequences could be great for all concerned and the rider could not only face civil proceedings for damages but fall foul of the Road Traffic Law.

To make it clear here is a simple guide about what they can and cannot do if they ride these small motorcycles anywhere that is not private land.

Use on roads and public places

Mini motorcycles are classed as Mechanically Propelled Vehicles and as such, if they are to be ridden on the road or any public place, the law requires that the bike is:

• Registered

• Taxed

• Insured

• Fitted with a prescribed standard pattern number plate

• Compliant with Construction and Use Regulations in regards to brakes, and includes the requirement to have fitted an audible warning instrument (horn), brake lights and indicators

• The exhaust must also conform and not be too loud or altered in any way

• If used at night it must also comply with lighting regulations and have lights fitted and working

• The rider must hold a license for that class of vehicle

• If that license is a provisional license then 'L' plates must be displayed

• The rider must wear protective helmet and eyewear.

The term 'public place' for the purposes of the Road Traffic Act 1988 has been defined as:

'Any place to which the public have open access is a public place, even if payment must be made to gain entry'.

This would include car parks (public, retail and business parks), public parks, recreation grounds and open spaces.

Use on private ground

Bikes can ONLY be ridden on private property with the owner's consent.

Section 34 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 states that, if without lawful authority a person drives a mechanically propelled vehicle on to or upon any common land, moor land or land of any other description, not being land forming part of a road, or on any road being a footpath or bridleway or restricted byway he is guilty of an offence.

Both police constables and PCSOs have powers to seize any vehicle used in a manner which causes alarm, distress or annoyance under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002.

Please note

If parents are the owners of a motorcycle, it can be classed as 'aiding and abetting' if they permit the illegal use of a motorcycle. Even if a parent just buys petrol for a motorcycle they then allow to be ridden illegally, they could be aiding and abetting the rider to commit offences. Owners can be prosecuted in addition to riders.

Go-peds - what's the law?

Go-peds, citybugs, buzz-boards and motorised skateboards are the most recent noisy additions to our streets and open spaces. However, most riders are unaware of the laws relating to their use.

Go-peds should not be sold as being suitable for use on the road, and people selling them should make buyers aware of the legal requirements.

If they are used in a public place, they are considered to be a mechanically propelled vehicle, and subject to the same laws as motorcycles.

To use a go-ped legally in a public place, you must follow all of the 'Ride legal' rules that apply to motorcycles.

Go-peds may be used in private gardens or on land where the rider has been given permission by the landowner.

If you have concerns about these bikes being ridden on public land please report it to the Police on 0845 456 7000 providing as much detail as you can (time, location, number, etc) and as often as it occurs.

SEIZURES

Since the beginning of the year Avonmouth Beat Team have seized 19 mini motor bikes, motor bikes and cars for no insurance and under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002. Virtually all of these have been crushed.

Officers have also issued 11 Section 59 warnings to person(s) riding or driving vehicles carelessly, inconsiderately or off road.

Medal for PC Nick Merrick

The Lord Mayor presented PC Nick Merrick with Lord Mayor’s Medal at Mansion House on 18th September. The Medal is presented to people who have made a significant contribution to the life of Bristol.

PC Nick Merrick has worked in Henbury for 12 years. His work as a Policemen has of course, been exemplary, but this award is about the community work he has done, over and above that, in his spare time.
He has worked tirelessly with Henbury and Brentry Community Council and other bodies in the ward, especially with young people, helping many who would otherwise have strayed into undesirable activities, and reaching out to those who the community consider a problem.

He has organised many events designed to integrate young people with older residents, such as community Fun Days. He has been very involved with the “Christmas Crackers” event on Crow Lane during the Festive Season which is fast becoming a local tradition. He also organises residential adventure weekends away for young people. On many of his projects he is assisted by his wife, and his children come along too.

The Henbury and Brentry Community is hugely in his debt. He does not live in Henbury, but his selfless commitment to us is second to none.

PCSO Kim Wrixon

“Hi my name is Kim and I am the new PCSO working from the Avonmouth station, covering the Brentry and Henbury areas.
For the last 10 years I have been doing various customer service roles and hope that this will stand me in good stead for my new role.
I'm looking forward to working along side PC stamp, PCSO Elliott-Taylor
and other agencies, helping to tackle issues that matter to the community. “ Kim Wrixon

Crime facts

In Henbury and Brentry during the past 4 months there have been 1,659 999 and non emergency calls to police, whether that is to report a crime or to give information.
There have been 504 crime reports taken by police, 43 have been detected, meaning a person has been arrested, charged, cautioned or given a fixed penalty notice.
407 crime reports have been filed with no further action due to insufficient evidence to proceed, this is due to people not willing to provide information or a witness statement which is needed in order to pursue a prosecution.
54 crimes are still being investigated.

Dispersal order

A Dispersal Order enables the police and local authorities to work together to identify problem areas where people feel threatened by groups loitering, causing intimidation and acting in an anti-social manner.
Where there is a persistent problem with such groups, a police officer above the rank of superintendent can designate an area a 'Dispersal Areas' for up to six months with the local authority agreement. This area could be as small as a cash-point or as wide as a whole local authority, as long as there is evidence of anti-social behaviour. In Henbury the area covered by these powers is Crow Lane and the surrounding area bordered by Station Road, Tormarton Crescent, Passage Road, Ellsworth Road and Clavell Road .

Within designated areas, the Police officers have the power to direct groups to disperse where a relevant officer in uniform "has reasonable grounds for believing that the presence or behaviour of a group of two or more persons in any public place has resulted or is likely to result in any member of the public being intimidated, harassed, alarmed or distressed".
Individuals can be directed to leave the locality and may be excluded from the area for up to 24 hours. Any person that contravenes a direction to disperse commits an offence for which there is a power of arrest.
A Dispersal Order is a tool the police will use to disperse persons away from an area where there are problems, however this does not guarantee we are going to get any extra resources in Henbury.

See it, Report it!

Henbury & Brentry are experiencing increased levels of crime and anti-social behaviour, particularly on Crow Lane. The Police need you to report any incidents, as insufficient evidence often prevents them from proceeding with prosecutions. There are many ways to report incidents, although witness statements are more likely to lead to positive outcomes. Please help your community and " REPORT IT".

• Crimestoppers - 0800 555 111
  
• Police (emergency only) - 999
  
• Police (non-emergency) - 0845 4567000
  
• PC Rachel Mann - 0117 9454383
  
• PC Andy Stamp - 0117 9454374
  
• Central contact (Avonmouth Station) - 0117 9454390
  
• Bristol City Council Anti-Social Behaviour team (ASB) can be reported to the 'It's Your Call' hotline on 08456052222 or email asb@bristol.gov.
  

Incident reporting forms
Another way to report what you see is by using the incident reporting forms and post box, located in Henbury Library on Crow Lane. You can use this form to report any incident, which if necessary will be passed onto the Police, Bristol City Council, Social Services etc. The forms will be collected regularly by the local beat managers/PCSO.

Community Drop-In

Do you care about your community? Do you want someone to talk to about it? Do you want to make a difference? Come and share your concerns, issues and ideas with the community safety team who will be able to help you. The local Police, the Local Councillor, the Community Safety Officer, the Housing Officer and the PCSO hold a monthly drop-in at Henbury Library, Crow Lane on third Thursday of each month from 3.30 pm - 5.00 pm.