Essex Police has issued a warning to those planning to buy e-scooters as gifts this Christmas, as they are illegal to use on roads and pavements.

Samantha Wright, Essex Police's Road Crime Operational Manager, said: "Christmas is marked by giving gifts, but we'd ask you to think again before buying an e-scooter.

"It's our job to keep all road users safe. They're not a toy and we need people to understand the legal implications of using one on a road or pavement.

"We don't want anyone to be disappointed on Christmas morning when they find out that they can't test ride it for the first time. Or even worse, it's seized because road-use is illegal."

Those looking for a Black Friday bargain or shopping for Christmas gifts have been urged to be careful about what they buy and where they buy from.

Essex Police has encouraged people to "get a Black Friday bargain, not a whole lot of trouble".

In recent years, the popularity of electric scooters has grown. They are often seen as a fun gift for young people, but police say there is a serious side to them, too.

Privately owned e-scooters are illegal to use on roads and pavements.

In fact, the only place they can be used is on private land and with the landowner's permission.

However, adults with a valid full or provisional driving licence can take part in e-scooter trials in Basildon, Colchester, and Chelmsford.

According to Essex Highways, the Government's Department for Transport decided that only designated hire scooters are legal for the trial period and in trial areas.

E-scooters used anywhere other than in the trial areas remain illegal, unless on private land.

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