Are you tempted to buy an e-scooter for Christmas? Rutland police are reminding us that the law is clear – they are illegal to ride on UK public roads, cycle lanes or pathways.

In fact, as Jonathan Clarkson, Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Road Safety Partnership (LLRRSP) spokesperson explains: "The only place you can ride an e-scooter legally is on private land."

The message comes as part of Road Safety Awareness Week (November 19-25), and as a result of continuing community concerns.

Rutland police officers based at various neighbourhood policing areas are telling parents and tempted buyers alike that even though e-scooters are cheap and available from many popular retailers, if you get caught riding one anywhere other than private land it can be seized.

"Moreover, if you injure somebody and cause them serious harm while riding an e-scooter, the incident will be investigated in the same way it would if you were riding a motorcycle or driving a car," Mr Clarkson adds.

Because an e-scooter is classed as a motor vehicle, you could receive penalty points for driving offences, just as you can if you are driving a car or motorbike.

You can also receive an on-the-spot fine of up to £300 if you are caught riding an electric scooter on a public road (£1,000 by Transport for London in the capital), and also be disqualified from driving if you are caught drink or drug driving while on an e-scooter.

"We understand the public's support for environmentally friendly modes of transport," Mr Clarkson explains.

"We want to work with the public to make sure the roads are safe for everyone.

"However, since 2021 we have seen 50 reported injuries involving e scooters, including 20 people who have received serious injuries.

"The UK Government is currently taking part in 'Future Transport Zone' trials for e-scooter hire, with a view to making them legal to use on the roads.

"All local authorities can apply to take part, but at the moment, Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland are not part of the trials."

Since the summer, 'Operation Pedelfast' has seen officers in Leicestershire and Rutland issue 121 'first and only' warnings, and seize nine e-scooters and eight e-bikes.