Officers from the Wombwell Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) will be increasing push-bike patrols in the area.

The bikes were purchased last year thanks to the work of community groups, local residents and BMBC who applied to central government for the funding.

PC Bower said: “Patrolling on bikes allows us to monitor areas normally inaccessible for vehicles such as woodland at Wombwell Woods and the Trans Pennine Trail.

“As well as using our bikes to police, we are also interested in ensuring the public stay safe when cycling. We offer free cycle safety advice to members of the public as well as free cycle marking so bikes can be identified if lost or stolen. It only takes a short amount of time to ensure your cycle is of a good safety standard. If we you unsure, please feel free to ask for our help.”

PC Bower and PC Fletcher’s cycle checklist:

• Brakes- apply both brakes and push the bike forward, the bike should not move. If the bike move this may indicate the brakes are warn or the cables are loose.
• Chain– ensure these are kept well oiled and check regularly for rust.
• Lights and reflectors - check these are clean and working correctly.
• Nuts and bolts – tighten any that are loose, particularly on mudguards, brakes, chain guards and wheels.
• Seat and handlebars – ensure these are secured and at a comfortable height.
• Tyres – keep them pumped up. Check for worn tread and cracked or split rubber.

To contact Wombwell SNT about cycle safety or any other matter, please contact 01226 736408 or visit www.southyorkshire.police.uk where you can enter your postcode.