Police in Kirkcaldy are revving up for a clampdown on illegal bikers.
Operation Fireblade has been launched to tackle the illegal use of motorbikes and quads, following years of problems in the town.
The Raith and Dunnikier areas have been regarded as particular hot spots, especially in the spring and summer months.
With the clocks due to go forward this weekend and lighter nights on the way, officers in the town are to be deployed to deter anti-social behaviour.
Police sergeant Jimmy Adamson said: “The most recent complaint came from the staff of a nursery supervising small children in the play area of Beveridge Park. Riders on scrambler-type bikes came along behind them and caused them considerable alarm.
“We want to send out a message to those responsible that this sort of behaviour will not be tolerated.”
Many of Kirkcaldy’s parks and public spaces have seen the illegal riding of motorbikes and quads in recent years.
As well as concerns over noise nuisance and anti-social behaviour, police also have long-standing concerns about riders using public roads without insurance.
As well as Beveridge Park, the north of the town has become a favourite playground for those wanting to ride their machines off-road.
Last summer the problem hit the headlines when a toddler in Templehall was struck by an off-road bike in a hit-and-run incident. The two-year-old escaped with minor injuries.
In an effort to curb the problem early on this year, officers are to conduct high-visibility patrols in affected areas to offer reassurance to the community, deter further offences and identify anyone involved in the anti-social use of motorcycles.
Councillor Susan Leslie said: “This has been a problem for a number of years. The issues we have are about identifying and catching the individuals involved and if the public can provide the police with intelligence then that will help a great deal.”
Sgt Adamson has urged anybody witnessing illegal bike riding to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Photo by David Wardle