POLICE are shunning patrol cars in favour of a tried and tested mode of transport.
Cleveland Police has ordered extra bicycles for their police after the first bikes proved a success.
Sergeant Ian Hudson, of Cleveland Police, said: "With such a large geographical area to cover, the bikes are very popular.
"Officers are able to respond much quicker to incidents and, at times, they are faster than cars as they can avoid traffic congestion and negotiate the alleyways in Hemlington.
Four officers cover the areas of Linthorpe, Marton and Acklam on two wheels. Cleveland Police has bought two more bikes.
Sgt Hudson, of the Coulby Newham Community Police Team, said the bicycling police were getting positive feedback and information from people who see them out on patrol.
He said: "Like officers on horses, cycling patrols are seen by many people as more friendly and receive positive feedback from residents who often stop and chat.
"They are also making significant arrests, including a 16-year-old who was recently caught in breach of his anti-social behaviour order."
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 The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.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