Police pedal-power goes off-road
Monday, 30 March, 2009
Western Bike Training Group Sgt Rob Thorpe front right (kneeling)
Police officers who patrol some of the most remote areas of North Yorkshire have received specialist training to provide a quick response in hard to reach areas.
They have been trained as "High Terrain Advanced Search Officers" utilizing mapping technology and mountain bikes.
This will enable them to respond quickly to incidents and searches involving injured or missing people in areas of rough terrain where vehicle access is difficult or impossible.
Sergeant Rob Thorpe of Harrogate Safer Neighbourhood Team who sits on the Association of Chief Police Officer's (ACPO) national working group for police cycle training, said:"This is a fantastic capability for the area which includes some very remote and difficult to reach places.
"The very nature of the area makes it a popular place for outdoor pursuits and we are often called to incidents where people are reported missing or injured.
"The training and equipment will mean that we can provide an immediate response to incidents while other resources are being mobilised, enabling us to reach victims quicker and ensure the right resources reach them as fast as possible.
"We are also working closely with local search and rescue organizations who have welcomed the extra capability and will take part in joint training exercises.
"The bikes are also used for general patrols and for responding to incidents in built up areas as well as in rural communities, providing a fast and flexible response."
