POLICE officers in Farnworth are getting on their bikes in the fight to catch criminals.

Three mountain bikes have been given to officers following a £2,431 donation from the Farnworth and Kearsley Area Forum.

They will be available to officers patrolling Farnworth, Kearsley and Little Lever.

The bikes will allow police to cycle down narrow footpaths and alleyways that are inaccessible to police cars and vans.

The pedal patrols will help combat gangs of youths who have been causing a nuisance around Farnworth.

Sgt Shane O'Neill, of Bolton police, first used police bikes when he worked at the Commonwealth Games in Manchester.

He said: "It's much easier and quicker for officers to get to places and it makes them more accessible to the public.

"They are an extra tool in our fight on crime and will be put to good use by police officers and community support officers.

"The bikes allow officers to cover a far greater area and sneak up quietly on suspected criminals.

"They have the ability to get to places that cars can't reach like parks and back alleyways."

Officers on patrol will be decked out in a uniform of cycling jacket, trousers and cycling helmet.

The aim is to provide a bike each for every officer who patrols area.

Cllr James Lord, chairman of Farnworth and Kearlsey Area Forum, said: "The forum works closely with the police all year round in partnership between Bolton Council to reduce crime in the area.

"We are delighted to be able to help fund these bikes and hope they will contribute to this joint objective."

l Officers from Farnworth will use the bikes in a 59-mile sponsored ride next month from Manchester to Blackpool to raise funds for Christie Hospital.