E-SCOOTERS are being ridden by reckless youths, sometimes with more than one on a single scooter, leading councillors have warned.

Spin’s e-scooter trial in Basildon needs a “major overhaul” amid fears it is “only a matter of time” before a serious crash occurs, according to mayor David Burton-Sampson.

Mr Burton-Sampson has himself seen two people using one scooter. He claims nobody wearing helmets, and e-scooters are being left in dangerous places on the pavements.

Under the trial, in partnership with County Hall, helmets are advised, and “cannot be forced”, Spin explained.

Docking stations will now be installed in “higher footfalls areas” of Basildon.

Mr Burton-Sampson said: “I’m surprised a serious crash hasn’t been caused by the e-scooters already. There’s a reason why these things are usually illegal.

“People are using them on the pavements, which isn’t in the rules. It’s too dangerous to ride the scooters on the road.

“Every time I see people using them, rules are being broken each time.”

As part of the trial, launched in December, Spin told the Echo that staff are supposed to be collecting the e-scooters if they’re left in places for too long, or if they’re causing a hazard.

Bosses have admitted that training for riders hasn’t been able to take place due to the lockdown rules.

The mayor of Basildon added: “Two were left outside my house the other day, and one was there for hours. They’re not being collected.

“The whole scheme needs to be overhauled. I was sceptical before it was launched. The trial needs to be reviewed.”

A spokesman from Spin added: “In the centre of Basildon there are strict parking rules as well as no-parking and no-ride zones. This is clearly indicated in the app so riders are aware.

“Riders can leave the scooter as long as it meets certain criteria. It can be parked on the pavement as long as it’s not blocking the walk-way or driveway. We appreciate they may seem abandoned to those unfamiliar with Spin’s parking policy.

“Rest assured, they are most likely just waiting for a new rider to pick it up.

“Riders need to take a photo of their parked scooter to lock it. All parking photos are reviewed for compliance.”