Police in Bicester have promised tough action against youths riding stolen and off-road motorbikes on the town's roads.

The move comes after three separate incidents last weekend.

On Friday, April 25, at about 1.15am, police were called to Gavray Drive, Langford Village, after reports of people riding an off-road motorbike on the estate. But when police arrived the riders ran off -- abandoning the motorbike, which had been stolen from a shed in the Glory Farm area an hour before.

On Saturday, a teenager was arrested on suspicion of stealing a motorcycle from the Highfield area.

At about 1am on Sunday, three youths were questioned by police after reports of an off-road motorbike being ridden around Bucknell.

Pc Annie Wadley said: "There was a similar spate of incidents this time last year. Again we will take strong measures against anyone, young or old, caught riding stolen motorbikes and off-road scooters and mopeds which should not be on public roads.

"Speeding around local roads on these motorbikes, without proper insurance, puts themselves and others at considerable risk."

Pc Bob Hooke, Bicester's crime reduction officer, warned people to secure motorbikes, especially lower capacity machines, which had been targeted by thieves.

He said: "Mopeds and scooters account for more than half the thefts. One reason is that some owners do not adopt the same security measures as those with bigger and more expensive motorbikes."

For more information on security call Pc Hooke on 01869 364560.