Police have issued a warning after an adult was seen riding an e-scooter “at speed” with a child on the front.

Officers carried out an operation in Margate after concerns were raised by residents about the safety risks created by e-scooters used illegally around the town.

In total, seven e-scooters were seized by officers.

A number of people were stopped after they were seen riding on the pavements in Northdown Road, Cliftonville.

Two people were seen riding on the same scooter, as well as another with an adult and a young child on.

Inspector Richard Batten said: “During the operation we stopped a scooter where an adult was seen riding at some speed while a child was positioned at the front.

“Had they been in a collision, it could have resulted in serious injuries for the child.

‘E-scooters might seem like a great idea for children to have, but it is important that anyone considering buying one understands the law surrounding them and that they are at risk of being seized.

“It is against the law to use e-scooters on public streets, pavements or cycle lanes.

“They are only permitted on private land, with the landowner’s permission, and in parts of the country where the Government has permitted trials.

“Currently there are no Government-permitted trials in Kent.

‘Using e-scooters around the streets of Thanet creates hazards to other road users and if there was a collision, their lack of insurance will result in others having to pay out for their actions.

“Officers will continue to carry out proactive checks in Thanet this summer so the message is clear that anyone found riding an e-scooter will have action taken against them.”