A massive clampdown on irresponsible youths terrorising villagers on their quad bikes across Datchet, Horton and Wraysbury has been welcomed by residents who have suffered the problem for years.

Officers from Windsor East Neighbour Policing Team (NHPT) launched their blitz on Sunday - and found no shortage of offenders despite the snow.

NHPT teams consist of officers, community support, special constables and police staff.

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During the day they issued numerous tickets and reported riders for various offences ranging from not having an MOT to not having a license or insurance.

They also seized one quad bike after it was seen being ridden near to the Wraysbury Green with no license, insurance, headlights or number plates.

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A statement on the Thames Valley police Facebook said: "We will continue to hound those using roads and land illegally with these types of vehicles and ask the community to continue to report offences to us either through 101, the Thames Valley Police web form or in an emergency 999."

The Royal Borough's lead member for public protection Cllr David Cannon who represents Datchet, Horton and Wraysbury said he was pleased the police were targeting irresponsible youths who seemed to see nothing wrong in riding illegally on roads and on private property.

He said: "They do not just come from round here - they come from outside the area too because of our open spaces.

"Some people are afraid to walk their dogs on the recreation ground in Datchet now because they feel so intimidated by these quad bikes."

Fellow ward councillor Ewan Larcombe who is also on Wraysbury and Datchet parish councils has been campaigning against illegal quad bike riding on the recreation ground for years.

He thinks the police should go further.

He said: "Their bikes should be confiscated and crushed - no argument , no debate. This is the first time the police have done something memorable and measurable about this."