BOBBIES on bikes have become part of the central Wirral street scene thanks to a partnership forged between police and a housing association.

Police Community Support Officers Andy Smith and Sarah Taylor now zoom along on mountain bikes on the Noctorum, Oxton and Claughton highways and byways previously covered on foot.

Wirral Partnership Homes presented the bikes to police to help the fight against crime and to reduce anti-social behaviour.

Clare Moore, WPH tenancy enforcement manager, said: “The bikes will help officers to become more visible and accessible to larger sections of the community as they can cover a wider area during patrol time.”

"WPH’s partnership with the local police has achieved striking success - particularly in reducing cases of anti-social behaviour.

"On bonfire night the police did not receive any ASB calls from the Noctorum area."

Previous hard work was recognised by the presentation of a ‘Tilley’ Award from the Home Office in 2010 which awards ‘successful and innovative crime fighting projects’.

The cost of the two cycles was just under £900 and includes a period of free servicing.

Ms Moore said: “We are really committed to working in partnership with Merseyside Police to help reduce anti-social behaviour so that our residents can enjoy their homes and live in peace and quiet.”