The public have been told to "sleigh no to e-scooters this Christmas," as the police warn illegal bikes and scooters will be seized.

With e-scooters and e-bikes sometimes costing up to several hundred pounds, Thames Valley Police have said they want to help stop the public spending their money “on something that could end up being seized and disposed of.”

Police are encouraging the public to understand the laws surrounding e-scooters and e-bikes before gifting them this festive period.

E-scooters are classed as motor vehicles meaning they need insurance, a valid driving license, registration, and tax to be ridden in public.

It’s currently not possible to get insurance for a privately owned scooter, meaning if you’re caught riding one on public roads, pavements or parks, you risk it being seized and disposed of.

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E-bikes are similarly restricted and gift-givers are encouraged to read.

Riders must be aged over 14 and the bike itself must meet several requirements.

To qualify as road legal an e-bike must:

·       Have pedals that are used to propel it.

·       Have an electric motor with a maximum continuous power output of 250 watts.

·       Have a cut off when the bike reaches 15.5mph (25 km/h).

·       Display the manufacturer’s name and the continuous rated power output and either the max speed the motor can propel the bike or the battery’s voltage.

Any e-bike not meeting this set of criteria is classed as a moped or motor cycle, meaning it has to be registered, taxed, insured, and the rider must have a driving license and wear a helmet.

If a rider is caught not meeting these requirements, police warn their e-bike will be seized and disposed of.