Bridlington Residents Warned: Think Twice Before Buying an E-Scooter This Christmas

Tuesday 3rd November 2026

By Bridlington Gold Radio Editor

Humberside Police "Is It Wheely Worth It?" campaign warning about illegal e-scooter use ahead of Christmas.

Families across Bridlington are being urged to think carefully before buying an e-scooter as a Christmas gift, as Humberside Police launch a new campaign highlighting the legal and safety risks associated with their use.

The force, working alongside the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, has unveiled its new "Is It Wheely Worth It?" campaign ahead of the festive season, warning that privately owned e-scooters cannot legally be used on public roads, pavements or cycle paths.

Police say many parents and guardians may be unaware that, despite their growing popularity and widespread availability online and in shops, privately owned e-scooters are subject to strict legal restrictions.

Anyone caught riding an e-scooter in a public place could see it seized by police and ultimately destroyed, resulting in what officers describe as a costly mistake during an already expensive time of year.

Crackdown Planned Across East Yorkshire

The campaign comes as officers prepare to increase enforcement activity across the Humberside area, including education visits to schools and targeted operations in hotspot locations where illegal e-scooter use and associated anti-social behaviour have been reported.

Residents in Bridlington can expect to see increased police visibility as officers seek to tackle unlawful riding and raise awareness of the dangers involved.

Under current UK law, privately owned e-scooters can only be used on private land with the permission of the landowner. They are not permitted on public roads, pavements or public spaces.

"One Hit of a Kerb Could Be Life-Changing"

Inspector Pete Musgrave, who leads Operation Yellowfin, the force's vehicle crime and anti-social behaviour initiative, said e-scooters should not be viewed as toys.

He said:

"E-scooters are increasingly being seen as a popular gift for children and young people, particularly in the run-up to Christmas, but it's important that people understand they are not toys and there are strict laws governing their use.

"We want young people to enjoy Christmas safely, and that starts with understanding the risks and making informed choices.

"One hit of a kerb and the consequences could be life changing. You wouldn't buy a motorbike for your child, so why an e-scooter?

"You can expect to see officers across hotspot areas, increasing visibility and enforcing the legalities of e-scooters in your area."

Public Concerns Growing

Humberside Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Evison said public concern over e-scooter use remains high across the Humber region.

He warned that even in cases where riders avoid injury, the likely outcome for anyone caught illegally using an e-scooter is the loss of the device.

Mr Evison said:

"The best-case scenario for anyone caught with an e-scooter is having their device confiscated and destroyed, rendering them a significant waste of money.

"Injuries from e-scooter use are a growing trend in our A&E departments and, unfortunately, there have been deaths elsewhere in the country.

"The message is clear, e-scooters are not worth it."

Know the Law Before You Buy

As Christmas shopping ramps up, police are urging Bridlington families to consider the restrictions before spending hundreds of pounds on an e-scooter that cannot legally be used in public.

The campaign's key message is simple:

Know the Law. Know the Speed. Know the Risks.

Anyone wishing to report illegal or dangerous riding can contact Humberside Police on 101, or 999 in an emergency. Information can also be passed anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Members of the public can also submit dashcam, helmet camera or mobile phone footage of suspected driving and riding offences through the force's Operation Snap online reporting portal.