York Police clamp down on cyclists riding without lights

Thirty-six cyclists were issued with traffic offence reports after York Police cracked down on cycling offences on Monday night. Most were stopped for riding without lights with emergency lights and high-vis rucksack covers handed out to many thanks to a council-funded cycle safety campaign.

York Press reports that police officers and PCSOs, supported by volunteer Special Constables, took part in the operation at Bootham, Micklegate and Walmgate bars.

Inspector Lee Pointon, of York Police, said: "The operation was really well received, with many pedestrians stopping to make positive comments about the proactive campaign. We will undertake further operations over the next few weeks, ensuring that we continue to have a direct and positive effect on the safety of people in the city."

Emergency cycle lights and high-visibility rucksack covers were given to some of the cyclists so that they could finish their journeys safely.

Last month, a cyclist in Essex was fined £225 by magistrates for failing to have lights or reflectors on his bike. Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court also ordered Roman Abramov of Grays to pay £90 in costs and a £22 victim surcharge. Usually, the offence of riding without lights would attract a fixed penalty notice of £50, but because the case went to court, a higher fine was imposed.