'Reckless' scrambler bike rider 'causes horse to unseat rider'

Officers made one arrest and are continuing their inquiries following the "distressing" incident, which happened on Sunday afternoon, April 28.
 
At around 2.05pm, a report was made to police of scrambler bikes in the area of Gorsey Lane, riding recklessly on footpaths and open land and causing distress to members of the public and horses, one of which unseated its rider.
 
Supported by the National Police Air Service (NPAS) helicopter, officers spotted the bikes being ridden at speed in Sutton Park and across St Helens Linkway before one of the bikes was stopped and a suspect detained.

Officers seized the bike (Image: Merseyside Police)

The bike was seized by police.
 
A 21-year-old man from St Helens was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and was taken into custody. He has been conditionally bailed pending further inquiries.

READ > Police explain presence at pub as man arrested
 
Community Policing Inspector Stacey Pope said: "This type of reckless behaviour endangers the public and causes distress to those residents and visitors to St Helens who want to enjoy our parks and open spaces.

"A horse was sufficiently frightened to unseat its rider, who was thankfully uninjured, but this shows the danger caused by illegally ridden bikes.
 
"Although one man has been arrested, we are still investigating and will continue to work closely with our partners to reduce the risk that such riding causes. If you were in the area and saw or captured anything on dashcam or other devices please come forward, as it could be vital in identifying all of those involved."
 

• Please contact @MerPolCC or Crimestoppers anonymously with reference 465 of Sunday, April 28.