I can tackle growing mini-motos menace, says racetrack boss

From the archive, first published Monday 23rd Jan 2006.

A MOTOCROSS enthusiast claims he can rid the streets of youngsters who illegally ride mini-motos.

The Worcester News reported last Wednesday how police are threatening to destroy mini-motos after receiving more and more complaints about them being ridden illegally in Worcester.

Officers have so far confiscated two of the bikes and are threatening to take more after 91 complaints of misuse in the city in the last four months and 171 across South Worc-estershire force area. But Tom Arnold, who has successfully run the 200-member Wilden Motocross Club in Wilden Lane, near Stourport for the past 13 years, believes more race tracks are the answer. He now wants farmers with suitable land to come forward so he can make his vision a reality.

"I run a professional outfit, with paramedics, safety checks, catering - the works," he said. "As well as the race track, there is a practice track, and it is an ideal situation for youngsters to come along and ride their mini-motos legally, while being in a safe, regulated environment."

Mr Arnold now says he is prepared to set up more race tracks around the county, funded completely by himself, wherever there is some suitable land.

"I want farmers with land away from houses to get in touch - I will convert the land at no cost and even pay them for using it," he added.

"I really believe this will stop the problems of kids riding roughshod through the streets. I can only have 14 race days a year at Wilden because of council regulations, so if there were more tracks, I could organise more - maybe even a couple a week."

Anyone who believes they may have suitable land should call Mr Arnold on 07759 891209. The next race day and practice meeting at Wilden was being held today.

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