SIX people were arrested in a police crackdown on illegal riding of motorbikes and car driving on footpaths and roads in Kidderminster.

The two-day blitz - named Operation Acoustics - was carried out in Spennells, Hoobrook and Aggborough on Wednesday and Thursday last week.

Nine uninsured cars and a mini motorcycle were seized by officers. Arrests were for offences including dangerous driving, suspicion of theft and outstanding warrants.

Fifteen police officers were involved in the operation, including an automatic number plate recognition - ANPR - team.

It was led by Kidderminster Sgt Kevin Lane, who said it had been prompted by issues raised during Partners and Communities Together - PACT - meetings on the Spennells estate.

Among them were illegal use of motorcycles and mini motos on bridleways and footpaths there.

He said: "Not only is the noise of the machines a nuisance to residents but there is also damage to the environment, as well as criminal damage and other anti-social behaviour linked to users of these bikes.

"It is an offence for anyone to be riding motorbikes on these paths and if we catch anyone riding mini motorcycles anywhere other than on private land, then we will seize the bikes and we will have them crushed."

Sgt Lane added police were working with partner organisations through PACT and Worcestershire County Council to close paths in the area being used by motorcycles.

"We are doing our bit to enforce the law but partner agencies are also looking at ways to stop these alleyways being used," he said.