HAMPSHIRE'S Trading Standards officers are asking parents, who are considering buying the latest craze - miniature motor bikes called Mini Motos - to think before they buy.

The county's watchdogs are receiving an increasing number of complaints from the public and want to alert consumers to the legal position.

Mini Motos are now widely available, particularly from market stalls and are likely to be the next "big thing" in the run-up to Christmas as a popular gift for children. If these bikes are used on the road, the users risk prosecution for lack of MOT, tax, insurance and a proper licence.

The county council is warning parents that these bikes are not toys and are unsuitable for use by children. The manufacturers' instructions often exclude use by persons under 14.

The leader of Hampshire County Council, Ken Thornber, said: "While not wanting to spoil people's fun, we want them to be aware of the legal requirements for this type of motor bike.

"A parent or carer buying one of these bikes as a gift may not realise that if their child uses it in a public place, they risk legal action.

"Though fun, these machines are just not appropriate or legal to use on the road or pavement. It is only a matter of time before there is a serious accident involving a mini motor bike.

"People riding these bikes in unsuitable places need to remember they are not only risking their own safety but that of others.

"It is not just about safety, as inappropriate use of these bikes can also lead to excessive noise and nuisance to other members of the community. All we ask is that anyone considering buying one of these mini motos thinks about it carefully and, if they do buy one, ensures it is only used in suitable places and not on public highways."

The bikes have become something of a nuisance in Bordon and its neighbouring villages in recent months and both the MOD Police and Whitehill Police have constantly had to highlight the dangers of riding them on the road.

Whitehill Police is particularly hot on the subject after the high-profile campaign to rid the area of the problem. The crackdown, called Operation Castleberry, resulted in prosecutions and a reduction in reports of problems with the bikes.

Under the current by-laws, a section 59 Order can be issued by the police, meaning that if a person is caught a second time riding illegally within 12 months, they will have their vehicle seized and a fine will be issued. They will also have to pay to get the vehicle back.

Phil Thomas, trading standards manager, said: "Unless people have got private land on which to run these things, you should not ride them."

For consumer advice on mini motor bikes, contact trading standards on 0845 603 0081.