A BIKER who chanced his arm by riding on the highways and byways in Wickford today paid the penalty.

Across the Basildon divisional command today (Sunday, 7 march) police officers were focusing on illegal bike riding and Wickford was a target area.

A force statement this evening said: "Officers today followed up information about off road bikes causing a nuisance in Wickford.

"The rider of the pictured bike was witnessed driving on the road and was subsequently stopped by officers. Due to the bike being an off road bike it had no insurance so was seized."

Over the weekend police the local community policing teams also targeted Pitsea and Vange.

Officers said: "On Saturday, 6 March, as we know how important high visibility police patrols are to our community we were back on patrol in these areas.

"While we were out we also carried out some speed checks residents have raised concerns with us about drivers speeding in the area, highlighting weekends as a problem. Some of these roads included Kenneth Road, London Road, Plaslowes and Burnt Mills Road.

"It's really important that you keep letting us know what is causing you concern in your community, so that we can take the appropriate action.

"As well as calling 101, you can now report non-emergency crime and antisocial behaviour online through our digital 101 service, making it easier and more convenient for you to contact us. You can contact us via this link and find more information.