POLICE and Trading Standards officers have warned members of the public they need to find out the legal position before buying a motorised scooter.

They are issuing a warning to people thinking of buying motorised scooters as presents for their children.

Sgt Ceri Loy, of West Yorkshire Police said: "We are concerned that a lot of retail outlets appear to be selling these scooters to customers without explaining the legal position.

"We would encourage shoppers to check out the facts before making a purchase."

There are a number of different types of motorised scooter on sale, including go-peds and city bikes that cannot be legally ridden by children on public roads.

They include both petrol and battery powered vehicles. There are also concerns about quad bikes.

Sgt Loy said motorised scooters were usually classified as mopeds.

"Unless people have a large garden or access to privately owned land, I'd urge all parents to think twice if they're thinking of buying one for their child as a Christmas present.

"The use of these scooters on public roads and pavements is illegal unless appropriately insured, taxed and registered with the DVLA. It is worth reminding people that even if the scooter's engine capacity is less than 50cc then the rider still needs to be 16 years old.

"Anyone caught riding the scooters illegally risks being prosecuted and having it confiscated."

Martin Wood, Chief Officer of West Yorkshire Trading Standards, said

the scooters seen by the department were not toys. As such they did not meet the safety requirements of the toy regulations.

He said: "I would advise any potential purchasers to check the quality of the scooter carefully and to be very cautious when buying them for children."