People have been warned about riding bikes “illegally” after four people were caught riding on land without the owner’s permission.

On Sunday, April 15, police from the Safer Neighbourhood Team came across people riding two quad bikes and a dirt bike through a field next to Warren Farm, which is between junction 16 and 17 of the M25, in Maple Cross.

When stopped, the riders from Stevenage and South London, stated they had the owner’s permission, but this was not the case.

The landowner had previously reported damage to the farm by anti-social riders, as it was having a severe impact on his livelihood.

Three section 59 warning notices were issued as a result. These notices are given if people are found to have used their vehicles in a manner which causes distress, alarm or annoyance.

If the riders are caught again within the next 12 months, police have the power to seize and possibly crush their vehicles.

PC Christian Gottmann said: “I want to stress that riding bikes across private farm land is illegal and anyone caught doing so will be dealt with accordingly.

“If you see anyone riding anti-socially please contact police. Try and get a good description of the rider and the colour of the helmet, if they are wearing one, and make a note of any registration numbers.”