Seized nuisance vehicles to fuel training for student mechanics

Two vehicles which have been seized in a crackdown on nuisance bikes and anti-social driving are set to be put to better use as training tools for student mechanics.

The vehicles, seized as part of Operation Transom – a joint city council and Staffordshire crackdown - are set to be donated to Stoke on Trent College to support the training of future mechanics.

The Yamaha motorbike and Toyota Verso car were both seized for being driven without valid insurance.

Rather than being scrapped, both vehicles will now be put to positive use as a hands-on learning resource for students studying motor vehicle and mechanical engineering courses at the college.

The operation is part of a wider programme of work is being carried out across the city, under Operation Transom - a joint initiative between the city council’s Anti-Social Behaviour Team and Staffordshire Police.

The crackdown continues to focus on tackling anti-social behaviour linked to nuisance vehicles, bikes and scooters, ensuring neighbourhoods remain safe, welcoming and enjoyable for residents.

Councillor Duncan Walker, cabinet member for safe and resilient communities at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Operation Transom is about taking firm action where vehicles, scooters and bikes are being used irresponsibly and causing disruption in our communities.

“By donating these proceeds of crime to Stoke-on-Trent College, we’re also helping turn a negative situation into a positive opportunity for local students.

"It's a fantastic example of partnership working in action reclaiming our streets and making them more family-friendly while providing opportunities for people to improve their skills and education."

Inspector Chris Moss, of the road crime team (RCT) said: “As part of Operation Transom, we are working alongside local partners to target nuisance bikes across Stoke-on-Trent.

“We will continue to remove these anti-social vehicles from the streets and, where we can, put them back into the community for positive use.

“I hope the vehicles are useful to local students as a hands-on learning resource.”

Hassan Rizvi, Principal and CEO of Stoke on Trent College said: “Having access to real vehicles is incredibly valuable for our motor vehicle students, as it allows them to develop the practical, hands-on skills that employers are looking for in the automotive industry.

“We’re very grateful to partners at Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Staffordshire Police for their support in donating them. Opportunities like this help our learners gain valuable experience as they prepare to become the next generation of skilled mechanics.”

The donation is expected to support practical learning and give students valuable experience working on real vehicles, helping prepare them for careers in the automotive industry.

Residents are encouraged to continue reporting antisocial driving and nuisance vehicle activity to help partners take action.

To report through to Operation Transom, telephone 01782 233400 or alternatively email operationtransom@stoke.gov.uk