RESIDENTS are being advised of the laws around electric scooters following an increase in their use in Wrexham town centre.

PC Dave Smith, Community Beat Manager for Offa and Rhostyllen, issued the advice on Thursday along with the consequences for those found to be breaking the law.

He said: “We have seen an increase in the use of e-scooters on our roads and pavements, many being bought as gifts by parents who are unaware of the law.

"We want to raise awareness that it is illegal to use them on public roads, pavements and pedestrianised areas.

"As a motor vehicle they must comply with Road Traffic legislation and as such require a driving licence, motor insurance and road tax.

"We are concerned that due to lack of awareness or ignorance to the law it won’t be long before someone riding an e-scooter or another road user may be seriously injured.

"It is against the law to ride an e-scooter anywhere other than on private land with the express permission of the landowner.

"E-scooters fall within the legal definition of a motor vehicle under the Road Traffic Act 1988. "Therefore the rules that apply to motor vehicles also apply to e-scooters.

"If found riding one in a public place individuals can face having their scooters seized, a fine or even points on their driving licence.”