Hundreds of e-scooters seized by police

E-scooters can only be legally used on private land

Police have seized 264 e-scooters so far since a county-wide crackdown began in November.

Derbyshire Police said 59 e-scooters were confiscated by officers in January alone as they targeted illegal use.

In November, the force introduced a new approach of seizing the items, which are illegal to ride on public roads, pavements or cycle paths.

Supt James Thompson said the change in approach was made in response to local community concerns and many people have had "negative experiences with e-scooters being used illegally and irresponsibly in the past".

As part of the new approach, there is no requirement for officers to issue an initial warning at the time of a first offence.

The force said one incident had seen officers stop a rider on an e-scooter who also had a four-year-old riding as a passenger.

Supt Thompson added: "The risks that the illegal use of e-scooters pose to both the public and the rider, especially in incidents with such a young passenger as well, are serious, and we will continue in being proactive to tackle this."

PCSOs in Derbyshire have also been granted the power to seize e-scooters, meaning they can take action whilst they are out on patrol too, the force said.