ANGRY Vale residents are appealing for motorbikers to stop riding down a public footpath. The scramblers, which reach speeds of up to 50mph, are tearing up and down the footpath, just off Brookside, Hampton.

John Rafferty, a local resident, said: "These bikes are causing real problems. We have women, young children, pensioners and pets walking up the footpath, if one of these bikes were to collide with someone, it would be awful."

The footpath adjacent to Brookside is only three feet wide in places and has become a stunt and racing track for the unruly motorcyclists.

"They are riding all afternoon and well into the evening. It has been as late as 12am before they stop and it's making everyone's life a misery. You're not even allowed to ride a push bike down the path, let alone these motorbikes," said John.

PC Di Summerton, Evesham beat manager, said: "Brookside is one of several areas we are looking into about these motorbikes. When I can find the people who are causing this nuisance they will be served a notice forcing them to stop riding irresponsibly.

"If they are caught again their bikes will be confiscated and they will be severely punished."