An INCREASE in the use of E-scooters has prompted a warning from police in Upton-upon-Severn. 

In the West Mercia policing area of Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire there is only one e-scooter trial, based in Redditch.

Therefore, E-scooters and hoverboards can only be ridden on private land with the permission of the land owner.

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PC Kevin Johns, of the Upton-upon-Severn safer neighbourhood policing team, said:" It has been brought to our attention that E-scooters are being used within the Upton-upon-Severn area. 

"Although E-scooters are available to buy they are currently illegal to use on public roads, pavements, cycle lanes and pedestrian-only areas.

"E-scooters are currently classed as personal light electric vehicles by the Government and fall under the same laws and regulations that apply to all motor vehicles in terms of requiring insurance, tax, MOT, licence and registration.

"There is no mechanism in place at the moment to obtain any of these for e-scooters so as this requirement can’t be met their use in public areas is illegal.

"Anyone found using them in public areas risks having the e-scooter seized by the police."

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Hoverboards are also not legal for road use and cannot be ridden on the pavement.

According to police, all riders, regardless of experience, should wear correctly fitting safety equipment, which includes a motorcycle helmet, gloves and elbow/knee pads.