Police report an upsurge in the number of reported incidents of youths riding unroadworthy bikes without a licence or insurance in recent months.

Police are also working with partner agencies including local housing providers, youth work organisations Youth Point and Kids United, and the youths themselves to tackle the problem.

Inspector Richard Coldwell, who heads the Weetwood North West inner neighbourhood policing team, said: "While the children feel that they have nothing to do, local residents cannot be put at risk to provide their entertainment.

"We have worked closely with the youths to get them to agree to hand over any other illegal motorcycles. In return we will provide training to ensure they learn to respect the power of a motorbike and the need to ride safely."

Funding for the £20,000 project has come from Leeds Federated Housing Association, Unity Housing, Leeds City Council's north west area management, and West Yorkshire Police.

"It is about showing youths that a life away from crime has more benefits and that we will work with them to improve their own life and their future.

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