An outraged city man is calling for tighter controls on abandoned Beryl bikes and scooters after witnessing one being dumped in a river.

Robert Giddings was enjoying a walk alongside the Wensum heading toward the Queen of Iceni pub when he saw an abandoned scooter being played on by children.  

Norwich Evening News: Currently leaving a Beryl bike dumped can incur a £10 fine Currently leaving a Beryl bike dumped can incur a £10 fine (Image: Submitted)

He said: “As I walked past, the boy, not content with just dumping the Beryl e-scooter by the edge of the river, then proceeded to tip the whole e-scooter into the river Wensum.  

“I was concerned he was about to fall into the river with it - luckily, he didn't.” 

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The incident has left Mr Giddings concerned about the impact the rental bikes and scooters could have on wildlife after spotting several similarly dumped items in recent years.

A spokesman for Beryl said: "All of our vehicles are equipped with Beryl’s industry-leading GPS technology that allows us to track them.  

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“When a vehicle is parked outside of a bay our policy is to move it back to a Beryl bay or bring it in for a service with our team if required.  

Norwich Evening News: This comes as Beryl bikes have been reported as dumped all of the city This comes as Beryl bikes have been reported as dumped all of the city (Image: Submitted)

“Our policy is the same whether it’s an out-of-bay vehicle or when we’re informed by members of the public about dumped vehicles as well. 

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"Unfortunately, on occasion, we have had reports of vehicles in the river.  

“We endeavour to retrieve them as quickly as possible, and sometimes we may need to wait for the water level to drop to do so safely.” 

Norwich Evening News: Gary Champion thinks Beryl bikes are a great addition to the city Gary Champion thinks Beryl bikes are a great addition to the city (Image: Gary Champion)

Beryl has partnered with other organisations including the Broads Authority to improve the issue.

Gary Champion, Green city councillor for the Sewell ward, said: “Beryl bikes are a valuable addition to our city's public transport network, and it is unfortunate that a small minority are willing to destroy property and pollute our green spaces and waterways."