Video of 'lunatic kids' doing dangerous wheelies in Strood has emerged
Published: 13:46, 25 October 2018
Updated: 15:59, 25 October 2018
More footage has emerged of "lunatic kids" performing dangerous bike stunts on busy roads.
A group of at least seven boys can be seen doing wheelies in Bligh Way and Albatross Avenue in Strood.
One boy in a red top, narrowly misses crashing into a large four-by-four vehicle as he does a wheelie into oncoming traffic.
He then attempts to balance on one leg while doing a wheelie.
The video was filmed in June by a car dashboard camera by a member of the Knights Place Neighbourhood Watch group.
A spokesman for Knights Place Neighbourhood Watch group Co-ordinator said: "We have been suffering lunatic kids undertaking a “chicken run” competition doing wheelies on the main bus route, Parkfields and Bligh Way.
"Both into oncoming traffic and with the flow while dodging around unsuspecting motorists
"Its just a matter of time before someone is hospitalised."
"Police are aware and have been seen talking to the daredevils.
"If you challenge these kids they are very abusive and thereafter they will target your vehicle."
Manager of Unit 1 Skatepark, in Unit 1b Laker Road, Rochester Airport Industrial Estate, Kathy Holmes has spoken out about the issue.
She said: "I've asked some boys at the skatepark what they think about this.
"They said it's not a good idea as it's so dangerous, but they think boys on the road do it to look cool in front of their mates even though it would obviously be safer to practice their tricks in a supervised, safe environment such as the skatepark.
"They also don't have to pay to ride outside which is another reason to not use the skatepark.
"They seem to like the danger element of riding the roads even though it is a hazard for themselves and others."
Medway’s District Commander, Chief Inspector Robert Marsh said: "We want young people and teenagers to enjoy riding their bikes but they should do so in a safe and responsible way that is considerate of other road users and pedestrians.
"Officers have been made aware of a particular video showing cyclists performing stunts in Medway locations and while no injuries have been reported, some of the actions of those featured are of concern and in other circumstances could have ended very differently.
"There are purpose-built bike and skate parks that are designed as safe spaces for cyclists and skateboarders to experiment in without the risk of colliding with moving traffic and people going about their business.
"There are criminal offences associated with this kind of behaviour and anyone identified cycling in this anti-social manner will be dealt with as appropriate."
The co-ordinator also said it is quite difficult to report the issue to police. In response, the police would like to remind people they can report crimes via the online crime reporting system, through an officer, by visiting the nearest police station and reporting in person or calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.
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Rachel Dixon