Northern Ireland

Scramblers being driven by north Belfast children with no lights on

Police have warned of the dangers of driving scramblers after reports of children driving the machines without lights in north Belfast. Picture by Pacemaker
Police have warned of the dangers of driving scramblers after reports of children driving the machines without lights in north Belfast. Picture by Pacemaker Police have warned of the dangers of driving scramblers after reports of children driving the machines without lights in north Belfast. Picture by Pacemaker

Police have issued a stark warning to parents in north Belfast after reports of scramblers being driven at midnight with no lights on in the area of the Antrim Road.

The PSNI in north Belfast has said they have received reports of scramblers being driven illegally close to the Waterworks and have stressed the importance of safety this Christmas.

In July west Belfast mother-of-three Valerie Armstrong (35) died after being struck by a scrambler while out walking the family dog in Colin Glen Park.

Last month the Kennedy Centre came under fire for permitting scramblers to be sold by a pop-up shop, just minutes from where Ms Armstrong was struck.

"Once again we have received reports of scramblers being driven illegally in North Belfast this time in the area of Antrim Road close to the Waterworks. What is even more concerning is that these scramblers are being driven at midnight with no lights on," a PSNI North Belfast officer said.

Police have made an urgent plea to parents to ensure scramblers are only used in safe and controlled circumstances.

"Nobody wants an accident this close to Christmas so those of you who have scramblers or allow your children to use them make sure they are used only on private land where the owner has given permission. Wear high visibility clothing and bear in mind how early the light level drops on these winter evenings. Stay safe and drive responsibly," the officer added.