SLOUGH Council has warned e-scooter users not to drink and ride as lockdown restrictions ease and pubs and restaurants reopen.

Drink and drug-driving rules apply to e-scooter riders and those caught under the influence of alcohol could get a prison sentence, a driving ban, and a substantial fine.

As hospitality venues reopened last week, Slough Borough Council is reminding users of the bright orange electric scooters that they still need to abide by the Highway Code.

Only residents over the age of 18 with a driving or a provisional license are legally able to hire one of the borough’s 450 Neuron Mobility Ltd electric scooters.

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The yearlong e-scooter trial launched in October and was expanded into Langley, Britwell, and Wexham in March.

Neuron Mobility has also launched a reaction test in its app from 6pm each day which could help riders reflect on whether they should ride.

Safety ambassadors will be out on the streets to encourage responsible riding such as not riding on the pavement.

Savio DeCruz, the council’s associate director for operations place, said: “E-scooters offer a sustainable zero emissions transport option in the borough between places of work and transport hubs which is fantastic as people gradually return to their lives.

“However, riders have to use them responsibly and are subject to the same laws as traditional vehicle drivers.”

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George Symes, Neuron’s expansion manager, said: “Like everyone we’re excited for the lockdown to end and can’t wait for more people to have the opportunity to use our e-scooters.

“We look forward to helping people reconnect with their friends and families but it’s important that we all do everything we can to make sure that e-scooters continue to be used safely.

“We advise all new and existing riders to follow the rules and to ride responsibly. Now is the time to be enjoying new found freedoms rather than risking points on your licence or spending time in A&E.”

The e-scooters are not permitted to be ridden on pavements and must only be used on the road and only one rider per vehicle.

Rule breakers should be reported to Neuron’s 24/7 customer service centre with the exact time, location and licence plate number by emailing sloughsupport@neuron.sg or calling 01753 981188.