A MAJOR police presence is planned for a York event today - although no one is expecting any trouble.

That is because officers from York who use two-wheeled transport in their work are being joined by colleagues from across the country and abroad as they take part in the Cyclists' Touring Club (CTC) annual rally at the city's Knavesmire.

They have been joined by two uniformed officers from the International Police Mountain Bike Association in the USA for seminars, presentations and a parade.

Also present will be officers from cycle units from London and the West Midlands, as well as cycling paramedics from ambulance services around the UK.

Sergeant Nigel Tottie said: "Throughout the country police forces and paramedic services are recognising the immense benefits that the use of cycle patrols can bring.

"As well as improving response times in busy urban areas and city centres, cycles allow police officers, in particular to be highly visible, and accessible to members of their communities."

On top of presentations today, delegates will tomorrow be invited to take part in the cyclists' church service at York Minster, organised as part of the CTC weekend.

There will be a parade of nearly 2,000 cyclists through the city afterwards and riders will compete in a competition against delegates to test speed and bike-handling techniques.

Updated: 09:34 Saturday, June 21, 2003