YOUNG bikers could get an off-road track to ride on rather than careering dangerously around streets and parks.

Hertfordshire Police, the fire service and the county council have all backed the scheme, the scheme which is the brainchild of St Albans PC Andy Chittenden.

This week his hopes were raised after the scheme was given a £3,500 grant, but PC Chittenden is still £60,000 short of achieving his goal.

He said: "I know a few motorcyclists, and they absolutely love the idea.

"There are very few places where off-road bikers can go and unless they have the permission of the land-owner, it is illegal.

"Only last week, two lads were seriously injured riding off-road and they both have life-threatening injuries.

"The off-road track would have a challenging course for all age groups and somewhere for mini-motorbikes."

PC Chittenden has identified a location for the track in Radlett and secured the provisional agreement of the landowner, although he does not want to say exactly where it is.

He hopes local businesses will provide sponsorship, promising publicity, for instance on the side of a van. The track will be equipped and he wants to provide motorbikes and other equipment for youngsters who don't own one.

PC Chittenden also says the track can be used an incentive for children to stay out of trouble as teenagers who misbehave will be banned from using it.

The latest grant, which brings his funds to £6,000, was provided by Hertfordshire in Trust, a charity funded by property confiscated from criminals or unclaimed items handed in by the public.

Anyone who can help the project can telephone PC Chittenden on 01707 638004.