POLICE in Bradford on Avon are using pedal power as a new way of policing canals and riverbanks in their fight against crime.

Bradford on Avon PC, Gary Jones will be getting a new bike so he can access areas where crime happens, but police cannot necessarily get to.

PC Jones said: "There are several areas in our patch which are not easily accessible on foot.

"I can now get to places such as Limpley Stoke more quickly by cycling along the canal towpath."

The new bicycle will keep Bradford on Avon residents happy. Police surveys have revealed people want to see a bigger police presence in the town.

Studies have also revealed police in cars are not as reassuring for people as seeing police on foot or on bicycles.

PC Jones said: "It's about getting to places where people don't usually see us, and seeing the police is what the public tells us it wants."

With the Kennet and Avon canal's busiest holiday time approaching, PC Jones reassured residents and holidaymakers quiet parts of the towpath would no longer be places to commit crimes.

Police in Bradford on Avon are busy packing up ahead of their move to the fire station in Station Road. Sergeant Mark Rees said they should be installed and operational by September 1.