CYCLISTS took to the rush hour streets of York en masse in a protest against traffic pollution.

About 50 people got on their bikes to slow motor traffic around York city centre and to highlight environmental and road safety issues.

The event was publicised among cyclists by environmental campaigners under the Critical Mass banner, a movement which has organised similar demonstrations elsewhere.

The party set off from Tower Gardens, some hooting horns and one group riding in a rickshaw, taking a winding route over the new Millennium, Skeldergate, Ouse and Lendal Bridges and nearby roads.

They ranged from students to cycling commuters to regular campaigners.

Student Catherine Elliott said: "I love cycling in York, but it could be better and we think there are too many cars in the centre. There is nothing you could say is an integrated transport system."

Chris Fonth, also a student, said cyclists found it dangerous on many roads as motorists did not take enough care when driving.

Jim Burrans, who is a cycle courier, said: "I'm taking part because I believe in alternative forms of transport and want to highlight the problems of congestion particularly in York."

Teacher Alasdair Lord said he commuted into the centre of York by bike every day.

Anna Semlyen, who has written a book about the issue, said research showed air pollution killed 24,000 people a year and said people were three times more likely to suffer from the effects of pollution in a car than on a bike or walking.

Updated: 10:22 Saturday, May 26, 2001