Police have been using remote control droned to target the use of illegal bikes in the county.

Cumbria police said they carried out an operation in Salterbeck, Workington, on July 5, after reports from residents, councillors, and housing associations of regular anti-social use of bikes in the area.

This most recent operation saw cops seize two illegal off-road bikes – a scrambler and a Sur-Ron electric bike.

Two people were reported for driving offences and a further two await to be spoken to by officers.

One person was also reported for driving without due care and attention, and a section 59 notice was issued to them.

During the operation, police gave an “It’s Your Choice” form to a person acting anti-socially.

The form is part of an intervention scheme which aims to educate young people about the consequences of their antisocial behaviour and the wider impact this has on other people.

The submission of these forms results in a letter being sent to parents and is subject to increasing scrutiny should a young person re-offend. 

Speaking on the operation, Sergeant Neil McKinnell said: “This the first time that we have used drones to assist us in identifying and tracking the activity of these bikes.

“The drone capability allowed us to direct officers to those areas leading to the two bikes that were seized.

“We will continue to tackle these issues and ask that the public report activity and locations of antisocial and illegal use of bikes so we can continue to take action.”