Boy on e-motorbike caught after pursuit

This is the moment police finally catch a teenaged e-motorbike rider who had just led them on a “hair-raising” Sunday afternoon chase in Blackpool.

Several police cars and a helicopter pursued the 17-year-old boy across tramlines and the famous Comedy Carpet on the promenade. He also tore through Stanley Park which was filled with dog walkers and young children.

At Preston Youth Court, the teenager – who cannot be named for legal reasons – admitted dangerous driving and failing to stop for police.

As well as being referred to Blackpool’s Youth Offending Team for 12 months, he was banned from driving for at least 12 months and until he passes an extended test. His e-motorbike was confiscated.

Lancashire Police said the balaclava-clad boy first refused to stop for officers at about 13:28 GMT on 9 February.

The force said the rider then entered Stanley Park before returning to the roads.

Officers eventually stopped him about an hour later, near New Bonny Street.

Police posted on social media: “Not only did the rider cut across tramlines and paths, football pitches full of children and Stanley Park on a busy Sunday afternoon, but he rode extremely dangerously, putting other road users, pedestrians and himself at great risk.

“We have had fatal collisions and serious injuries throughout the county, caused by e-bikes and e-scooters. We know that the public want to see more done to tackle antisocial driving.

“We understand your concerns and are listening. We will continue to target anyone intent on this type of criminality on Lancashire’s roads.”