Town-centre patrols are set to continue during half term

Police in Shrewsbury say they have seized 14 e-scooters in a town-centre crackdown.

The force said the confiscations had come as part of an operation to tackle anti-social behaviour.

It said as well as 14 e-scooters the team had also seized one electric bike.

A statement from the force said: “Following an increase in reports of e-scooters being ridden dangerously in the town, officers have been working with Town Rangers, Team Shrewsbury and youth workers to take them off the streets.

“While e-scooters are available to buy, they are currently illegal to use on public roads, pavements, cycle lanes and pedestrian-only areas unless they are part of an approved Government rental scheme. There are currently no legal e-scooter rental schemes in Shropshire.

Shrewsbury's Safer Neighbourhood Team Inspector, Ingrid Tozer, said: “Following concerns from the community about e-scooters being ridden dangerously and causing anti-social behaviour in Shrewsbury town centre, we have been carrying out targeted patrols and working closely with our partners to address the issue.

“E-scooters ridden in public places without the appropriate insurance are illegal and can pose a risk to pedestrians and other road users if used irresponsibly.

“We have seized 14 e-scooters and an electric bike as part of this activity, and we will continue to take action where offences are identified. We would also encourage parents and carers to make sure they understand the law around e-scooter use and speak to young people about using them safely and responsibly.”

The force added that during half-term officers will be continuing with patrols in the town centre and said anyone found riding a privately owned e-scooter in public places risks having it seized.