HAMPSHIRE Constabulary is asking people to report the illegal use of motorbikes in the countryside.

It comes after Whitehill town councillor Roger Russell called the police on September 26 after he tried to stop “lads on pit bikes” riding “really fast up and down” the Hogmoor Inclosure.

“This went on for half an hour,” he said. “They nearly hit my dog.”

Fellow walkers simply had to get out of the way of the bikes, he said.

“I phoned the police, but by the time they got there they had gone,” Mr Russell added. “I met the police at the site. They came in by the access gate on the relief road. As the police were leaving they came down the relief road at high speed, saw the police, U-turned and went back into Whitehill. They need to be caught before they hurt someone.”

A Hampshire Constabulary spokesman said officers received a report of the riding at 5.30pm on that Wednesday. “Officers attended but no motorbikes could be seen or heard at the site on their arrival,” police added.

“Two motorbikes were later seen heading towards Petersfield Road. Both riders wore hi-visibility jackets.

“Anyone who has concerns or information about motorcycle nuisance should call 101.

“If possible, please make a note of: the type, make and model of the motorbike; the colour and any stickers, numbers or other distinguishing marks on the vehicle; the description of the rider and crash helmet if applicable, and where the motorbike has come from and where it is going.

“We would also like to remind motorcycle users of the following: you must be insured, have an MOT certificate; have valid road tax; you must wear a helmet and you must only ride on the road or private land.

“It is against the law to use a go-ped, mini-moto, quadbike or motorbike in public parks, open spaces or on footpaths, pavements, cycle routes and bridleways.

“If you’re under 16, the only place that you can ride a go-ped, mini-moto, quad bike or motorbike is on private land, but you must have the permission of the landowner.

“If you’re over 16 you can use a go-ped, mini-moto, quadbike or motorbike on the road if you meet certain legal requirements or on private land if you have the landowner’s permission.

“Riding without these requirements is illegal and dangerous. It is not the responsibility of the police to provide riders with areas they can legally ride their vehicles.

“You will need access to private land or membership of a motocross club to enjoy your hobby legally.”