A SWINDON councillor leapt into action when he saw three young teenagers pushing what appeared to be a stolen motor scooter.

Coun David Glaholm (Lab Penhill) apprehended the bike as the boys pushed it along an alleyway in Haydon Wick.

The front light was hanging off where it had been hotwired.

He grabbed the bike, and the youngsters fled.

The incident happened in the alleyway which runs between Haydon View and the Seven Fields Nature Reserve.

He said: "They tried to get past, but I stood my ground and grabbed hold of the bike.

"They ran off towards Pinehurst.

"The bike was in a state, the saddle was gone, the front light smashed and there was no back number plate."

He arranged for Swindon Services to remove the bike, and called the police.

Earlier, a resident had called the police to complain about the youths, who were causing a nuisance.

They were aged between 13 and 14 and wearing baseball caps, jeans and t-shirts.

Earlier this month, the Adver reported on youths causing problems by racing motorbikes in Abbey Meads.

They have turned a one-mile path between Abbey Meads and Penhill into a race track, and residents fear someone will be harmed.

The troublemakers are a group of teenagers between 15 and 17. A 500cc scrambler bike is used regularly.

Coun Glaholm said: "The tragedy is that these kids are obviously brainy, it's a real shame their talent can't be harnessed in some way.

"They have got so much energy and enthusiasm, but they use it to cause problems.

"They put the public in danger, driving around at high speeds with no regard for anyone."

Inspector Adrian Burt, of Swindon police, said: "We are investigating the incident and once we complete inquiries we will take appropriate action."

Anyone with information about the youths should call Swindon police on 01793 528111.

Tamash Lal