Police have seized 30 motorbikes in a crackdown on illegal off-road biking in south Wales.

Operation Pitman, involving the fire service and Forestry Commission, as well as police officers, aims at cutting rural crime in the valleys around Cynon, Rhymney and Merthyr. 14 warning notices were also issued, which can lead to vehicle seizure if a second notice is served within 12 months.

As well as targeting off-roaders, police, council workers and firefighters are cracking down on fly tipping and those starting grass fires. A helicopter, mountain bikes, police horses and off-road vehicles were used by enforcement teams during the operation.

The hillsides around Rhymney, Aberdare and Merthyr have become notorious for anti-social behaviour. 201 grass fires were reported during a month-long period earlier this year and fly-tipping is rife.

Councillor David Poole, of Caerphilly County Borough Council said: “Culprits should now know that they are not beyond the long arm of the law.”