A MAN has been arrested and two suspected stolen quad bikes recovered after a police pursuit near Skipton.

At about 12.30am today (Thursday) a vigilant member of the public called police with a report of a number of suspicious vehicles, including a quad bike, being driven along the B6160 in the Yorkshire Dales, north of Skipton.

Officers responded immediately, and a quad bike was found abandoned on the roadside. Meanwhile, a Ford Transit failed to stop for police, and was pursued onto the A65. The vehicle was stopped at 12.50am and a second quad bike was found inside.

Quad bikes and all-terrain vehicles are among the items most likely to be stolen in rural areas.

Police have today reminded owners of such vehicles to take the greatest of care, to park as closely to their premises as possible, and ideally in a locked garage, or well lit open space, and preferably out of sight from nearby roads.

Keys should never be left in or near the vehicle, and wheel clamps, locking posts or alarms should be fitted.

Vehicles should be marked or customised, so it is easily identifiable, and tracking devices should be fitted for high value vehicles.

Owners should also keep a record of all vehicles, including photographs and serial numbers.

PCSO Sally Breen, of North Yorkshire Police's Rural Taskforce, said: “I am urging anyone who owns a quad bike – and particularly if they live in a rural area – to take extra steps to ensure their vehicles are left safe and secure. It’s much better to spend a bit of time and money now on better security than to go through the inconvenience and upset of having your vehicle stolen. Members of the public act as our eyes and ears in rural areas, and so if you are aware of any suspicious activity, don’t hesitate to contact us, and we will take action.”

Police are also continuing to urge people in rural areas to be vigilant, and report any suspicious activity to the police, as part of its Call It In campaign. Even if it does not need an immediate response, every piece of information helps officers build up a picture and could prove vital.

The driver of the Transit van, a 27-year-old man from Shipley, was arrested on suspicion of motor vehicle theft, driving without a licence or insurance, cannabis possession and burglary. He has been released under investigation while inquiries continue.