A MOTORCYCLE stunt rider missed out on a world record yesterday.

Dave Coates, from Darlington, was attempting to set a new standard for the number of "doughnuts'' performed in a minute at the ninth Bikewise event held at Durham Police's headquarters.

Mr Coates finished two short of his target of 20 doughnuts - a complete circle made by a bike with its wheels remaining in contact with the ground and the back wheel undergoing a full spin.

"It was a gallant effort but unfortunately he was short of the world record,'' said a force spokesman.

Attractions at the event included a demonstration of skills from trials bike champions James Lampkin and brothers Andy and Chris Huddleston.

Vehicles used in the ITV series Heartbeat, including a black Ford Anglia patrol car and a Morris commercial wagon, were on show.

Also on display was a street bike used by officers in their fight against off-road bikers.

The force said the event was a useful way for them to get across road safety messages to the public.

Proceeds from the event will be donated to charities later in the year.