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Dozens of calls were made to police by anxious members of the public after a convoy of scrambler bike yobs took to the streets over the weekend.

The menacing squadron of scrambler and quad bikes brought chaos to the region’s roads on Sunday.

The bikers themselves issued a defiant message to the authorities, saying their action was a “protest” over a lack of venues to legally ride off-road bikes and threatening similar displays in the future.

Riders were seen doing wheelies and ignoring red traffic lights and were also involved in a number of incidents of anti social behaviour.

Reports were received that one of the riders may have been in possession of a handgun, although at this stage this is not confirmed.

Major city roads were blocked.

During an eight hour period, police received almost 500 emergency 999 calls and over 80 calls in relation to the scrambler riders came in to the police control room.

Their antics “could have” affected genuine 999 alarms as police were flooded with calls.

Now Merseyside police has joined forces with their counterparts in the fire and ambulance services to appeal for the public’s help in catching those responsible.

In a joint statement Chief Constable Andy Cooke, Chief Fire Officer Dan Stephens and North West Ambulance Service Director of Operations Ged Blezard, said: “Between 1pm and 9pm on Sunday a group of up to 50 scrambler bikers caused chaos on the region’s roads.

“During that eight hour period between 1pm and 9pm the police received almost 500 emergency 999 calls, and at the same time over 80 calls in relation to the scrambler riders came in to the police control room.

“Fortunately, we were able to manage the demand, but the sheer volume of calls in relation to the scrambler bikes could have affected our response to genuine 999 calls for help.

“These youths think they are untouchable and can do what they like. The sad fact of the matter is that they have a complete disregard for other road users and members of the public.

“Most disturbing of all is the fact that the sheer number of riders was blocking major roads and this could have prevented the emergency services (police, fire and ambulance) from attending incidents where lives could potentially be at risk.

“Travelling in large convoys can considerably slow down the response of emergency vehicles making their way to life-threatening incidents.

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“The emergency services are also regularly called to serious and fatal road traffic collisions that could be easily avoided. This type of behaviour could easily result in devastating consequences, as these motorcyclists are not only putting themselves in danger of receiving life changing injuries, or even loss of life, but they are also putting other road users at risk.

“This is wholly unacceptable and we would urge anyone who has any information which could help us to identify those who took part in this reckless convoy to contact Merseyside Police so that action can be taken.”

Anyone with information on who is using these bikes and where they are being stored is urged to call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.