The black pit bike was tracked to a residential address in Bicknor Road on 9 April, during the latest police response to issues reported in the Parkwood and Shepway estates.

Assistance was provided by the force’s Roads Policing Unit in locating the vehicle, following several concerns raised the previous weekend that the bike had been illegally used on playing fields.

Maidstone Chief Inspector Mark McLellan said: ‘We are continuing to target the small minority of people whose selfish and reckless actions cause real anxiety and distress, to residents including the elderly and young children. Everyone should be able to safely enjoy our open spaces, and we will not tolerate those who persist in using off-road motorbikes and quad bikes in public areas and on footpaths.

‘Our dedicated beat officers, as well as constables from the Neighbourhood Task Force and specialist units from our Tactical Operations Unit are working hard to identify offenders on vehicles not designed for public roads. In the past two weeks, we have issued four Section 59 warnings under the Police Reform Act. Ultimately, this means if the person issued the warning is seen illegally using the vehicle again it can be seized and destroyed. We have also issued several community protection warnings to both riders and parents and failure to adhere to these can result in prosecution and court appearances.’

Anyone affected by illegal and anti-social use of vehicles can report incidents on our website Report antisocial behaviour | Kent Police