A NEIGHBOURHOOD policing team is going back to basics - after taking delivery of a bicycle to help officers get around the patch quickly and easily.

The idea of a police bike for the Stokesley team came from Hambleton Community Safety Partnership's theme group for anti-social behaviour.

It suggested that bikes would be the fastest mode of travel around the housing estates in the community.

Broadacres Housing Association stepped in to provide the money for the bicycle and arranged for it to be liveried by Bike Traks, of Great Ayton.

"We would like to thank everyone for getting the bike ready for patrols," said Sergeant Sarah Jane Sanderson, who leads the police team.

"It will mean we have a huge advantage over the people who cause trouble - we will be able to get to reported incidents much faster. Such high visibility patrols will also reduce crime and the fear of crime.

"The people of Stokesley want to see their police teams out and about. They will be able to stop and chat to them - really getting to know them. This is the future of neighbourhood policing."

Local district councillor and Broadacres Housing Association board member, June Imeson said: "Broadacres, as one of the founder members of the safety partnership, is committed to combating crime in the community and is pleased to be able to support this new initiative."