POLICE are warning people to remain vigilant after a spike in moped-related incidents in the area.

They are warning pedestrians to be careful of their surroundings after an increase in reports of mopeds and bikes mounting pavements.

Widespread concern has been reported in London Colney, Cottonmill, Highfield, Camp Road, Alban Way, and in the city centre.

St Albans district neighbourhood inspector Adam Such said: “My neighbourhood teams are receiving dozens of calls of young people riding mini motos, off road bikes and mopeds illegally and dangerously.

“The young people have their faces covered and the mopeds do not have registered number plates.

“Police are not able to pursue these vehicles, due to the safety of the public on and off the roads and the dangers to the offenders themselves, but we will do everything we can to put a stop to this reckless behaviour.

“If you see anyone riding dangerously, please call 999.”

Moped-related crime has risen dramatically in recent months, especially in London, with thefts from pedestrians recorded every day.

There has been a rapid rise in phone snatches, where a passenger on the bike will swipe a mobile from a person’s hand and the pair will ride off in seconds, leading more people being forced to walk with their mobiles out of sight when out.