A NEW crime-busting "biking bobbies" unit today started patrolling the streets of York.
Four officers wearing high-visibility uniforms were scouring the city centre and Acomb on specially-adapted mountain bikes.
The unit was launched to provide fast, effective patrols, with the cycles making it easier for officers to get around, quickly stop and assist the public.
Sergeant Nigel Tottie, who is heading the unit, said: "We hope that putting officers on cycles will be a modern and effective way of policing York city centre.
"Not only will the presence of officers reassure the public, it will also act as a deterrent to any criminals in the city centre. Bikes will mean the officers can get around quickly and efficiently."
The scheme, which is being piloted for six months, is being jointly sponsored by City of York Council, the Safer York Partnership, the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, Cycle Heaven, First York, CPP, British Sugar and Inner Space Stations.
The effectiveness of the scheme will be evaluated by researchers from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation.
Updated: 14:40 Monday, July 15, 2002
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article