Police are warning of a terrifying new cycle stunt coming to Dover district.

It includes young riders pulling away from oncoming buses at the last moment.

It is feared that the trend, which caused havoc in Maidstone last month, is due locally this weekend.

The craze involves young cyclists carrying out hair-raising stunts such as riding against the flow of traffic on busy roads.

'We have serious concerns regarding this type activity' - Insp Stuart Norris

Now police at Dover have put out a letter to local parents, saying the bicycles of children involved can be seized.

The letter, from Insp Stuart Norris of the Dover Community Safety Unit, said; "It has come to the attention of Kent Police that a ride-out is planned in Dover district for the weekend of July 13.

"We have serious concerns regarding this type activity.

"If you believe your child may be seeking to take part in this type of ride-out we ask for your support in discouraging and warning them about the consequences of riding irresponsibly and taking part in antisocial behaviour.".

Insp Norris' letter said that the trouble in the Maidstone area last month involved about 100 children.

He wrote: "These young people were riding their bikes against the flow of traffic on busy roads, pulling dangerous stunts and abusing other members of the public.

"It was very fortunate that none of the cyclists or other road users were seriously injured. as a result."

Video from Maidstone Aylesford on June 15 showed youngsters carrying out stunts such as riders pulling away with barely seconds to spare from an oncoming bus.

Local police immediately put out a dispersal order in Maidstone town centre.

They later confirmed that they had learned that another such event was planned for June 30 and would have a dispersal order for that.

That event, starting from outside County Hall, was later cancelled.

News of these events tend to be spread among participants by online messaging services.