PARENTS thinking of buying their children motorised scooters for Christmas have been asked to think again.

The toys, known as Go-peds, have fuel-driven engines and have been classified by the courts as motor vehicles.

Police say it is unlikely anyone would be able to register them for use on the open road because it would require permission from the Government.

PC Terry Hobbs of North Kent's traffic management unit said: "The minimum rider age limit for mopeds is 16. Riders need insurance and all vehicles require a registration number. Our view is these machines can not be used on roads or public highways lawfully and people using them can face prosecution."

November 30, 2001 16:37