POLICE are using innovative measures to crack down on the number of cyclists who put lives at risk.

Riders already face a £30 fine if they are found to be out on their bikes at night without lights in York.

As part of a new pilot scheme, they now have a chance to escape the fine if they make their bikes roadworthy within 14 days of the warning.

The initiative, which gives cyclists the option to avoid a fine, is believed to be the first of its kind in the country.

PC Lee Fickling from North Yorkshire Police Community Cycle Unit said their aim was not to punish cyclists, but to encourage safety.

"It's very cheap and simple to put lights on your bike and makes you more visible. The scheme is more of an encouragement than us prosecuting people," he said.

A spokesman for City of York Council said: "Full marks to North Yorkshire Police on this enlightened idea.

"This will encourage cyclists to light up as the mornings and evenings draw in."