Crackdown launched to tackle nuisance off-road bikers in Barnsley
Officers covered 73 miles looking out for off-road bikes being used in illegal and ASB activity.
Last updated 7th Jul 2025
Neighbourhood officers in Barnsley have teamed up with South Yorkshire Police’s Motorcycle and Rural Crime Team (MARCT) to tackle anti-social off-road biking as part of ASB Awareness Week.
The joint operation saw officers patrol hotspot areas including Athersley, Worsborough, Kendray and Grimethorpe, covering more than 70 miles in a single day. Several vehicles were stopped, two stop-and-searches were carried out, and cease and desist letters were delivered to suspected riders — all based on community intelligence.
Sergeant Paul Aston from Barnsley South East NPT said:
“We know the real negative impact dangerous and inconsiderate off-road bike riders have on our local communities. No one should feel unsafe where they live.”
"No one should be made to feel unsafe in the areas they live in and operations like this is part of our ongoing work to continue to tackle the issues and concerns raised to us.
"We are aware of certain hotspot areas in Barnsley and you can help us tackle this problem by providing intelligence and information about where these bikers are most prolific.
“Providing descriptions of the people riding these bikes and information about where these bikes are kept helps us track down offenders and bring them to justice.”
Officers also used the opportunity to speak with residents, share reporting methods, and listen to wider concerns.
Police are urging the public to continue reporting nuisance bikes and riders, with information helping to build a clearer intelligence picture. Reports can be made via the South Yorkshire Police website, by calling 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers.