Scrambler riderran from policeat North Road

Officers were alerted to the vehicle when the rider experienced difficulties getting it started.

Police say that the rider fled the scene as officers approached.

They have now taken the unusual step of issuing dramatic image released by Merseyside Police in a bid to raise awareness of the dangers of scramblers.

They stated: “Seventeen-year-old Ben enjoyed riding his scrambler, it was fast, exciting and great craic.

“After this crash, he doesn’t ride his scrambler any more. The bike is written off and Ben is dead.”

PSNI Carrickfergus commented: “I’m not going to ramble on or preach about how we don’t want anyone to come to harm.

“It’s clearly a waste of time. But please take a look at this picture.”

Meanwhile, police have removed the scrambler from the side of the North Road and it has been transported to Carrickfergus Police Station.

The PSNI has indicated that it “wanted to do the decent thing”.

Police are now keen to speak to the owner and reunite him with the vehicle.

“To reclaim your vehicle, please bring the following to Carrick Police Station: proof of ownership; your driving licence or other photographic identification. You must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult, if you are a juvenile, as we suspect.

“We will need to ask you a few questions about several motoring offences.”