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Dogs killed by mini motos

TWO DOGS were killed after being struck by miniature motorcycles ridden illegally by children on Christmas Day.

The Lurchers were being walked at Poulton Fields in Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire, by their owner when they were hit by the machines, known as mini-motos. One dog died at the scene and the second was later ethanased by a vet after suffering a broken spine.

PC Gary Jones, of Wiltshire Police, said: "There were a number of children riding mini-moto bikes on the fields. We believe that the dogs were killed by mini-motos being ridden by very young children. I would remind parents that these mini-motos are completely unlawful for use on land to which the public have access, or on roads."

Parents were given warning last month that children risked being given Anti Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs) and having their machines confiscated because of the rising number of complaints about them. The bikes can be used only on private land with an owner’s permission, but they are an increasingly common sight in parks and housing estates.

Although marketed as toys, they can reach speeds of 60mph and cost as little as £100.