Motor crime crack down Operation BikeWatch has been launched by police in Thamesmead.

The scheme follows worrying reports of bikers using the estates as race tracks, previously reported on by News Shopper.

Videos posted by group UK Bike Life show balaclava-clad riders performing stunts and wheelies on quad bikes and mopeds - both along estate walkways and on the dual carriageway.

News Shopper:

Stills from UK Bike Life videos

Earlier this year, concerned Wolvercote Road resident Brian Barnett said: "What I'm most concerned about is one day there's going to be a fatality.

"Someone's going to be walking along, it might be an elderly person, a motorbike comes hurtling around the corner and knocks them flying."

News Shopper:

Now officers from Bexley borough have joined forces with the Met's roads and transport policing command, Bexley neighbourhood watch and Gallions/Peabody – in a bid to crack down on bike crime and anti-social behaviour across Thamesmead.

Six illegal vehicles were seized and 19 drivers reported for various traffic offences on the operation's launch day last Thursday (October 16).

Bexley Safer Neighbourhoods Chief Inspector Peter Bodley said: "Local residents have informed us that vehicle crime and anti-social behaviour is a problem in the Thamesmead area and rightly demanded action."

News Shopper:

Zena Skinner from Gallions Peabody Group added: "Residents have reported dangerous riding of bikes in our open spaces.

"I am pleased that we are able to work with the police and Neighbourhood Watch to tackle this issue."

Once the scheme has been successfully rolled out across Thamesmead, police will look to expand the operation across Bexley.

Thamesmead residents can report anti-social behaviour on 020 8721 2049 or Thamesmead.SNT@met.police.uk Sign up to BikeWatch at bexwatch-office@btinternet.com

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