POLICE officers have been warning families across the country about electric scooters as presents this Christmas after a 15-year-old boy was given six points on a driving licence he does not even own yet.

The youngster was stopped by officers after riding an electric scooter at 'high speeds'.

Cleveland Police said the boy appeared in court last month after being caught.

The force did not reveal any further details of the offence but has warned parents about 'the consequences' of buying scooters for their children.

What does the law say?

Electric scooters, which can reach speeds of up to 40mph, cannot be used on roads or pavements and can only be ridden on authorised or private land, police said.

PC Mike Doherty from Coulby Newham Neighbourhood Policing Team said: "These scooters are not toys, and not only can they be extremely dangerous but they are also not legal to ride on pavements and roads and I think many parents aren't aware of this.

"Under the Road Traffic Act we can report the individual rider for not having insurance, a license, a number plate, helmet and MOT for the scooter.

"This person will then be reported for summons and will be given a minimum of six points on their license or future license and a possible fine."