Cyclists who put themselves and others in danger by riding illegally are the target of a new police crackdown starting today, writes Emma Henry.

A dedicated team of officers and special constables will scour known hotspots across Oxford for the next month looking for cyclists riding in prohibited areas or with no lights after dark.

Any offenders will receive a larger fine than previously, with the Government raising the level of fixed penalty tickets for cycling and minor motoring offences from 20 to 30 from today.

Police hope the campaign will have the knock-on effect of tackling bike crime.

Sgt William Boyle, who is leading the campaign, said: "Illegal cycling is a big problem in Oxford and this campaign will aim to catch those who threaten the safety of themselves and others. "We will be especially keen to tackle the problem of people cycling illegally in the city centre, especially Cornmarket Street, and during the night we will look at venues such as Magdalen Bridge and Queen Street, where people are regularly seen cycling without lights."

He added: "The public have to accept that even though illegal cycling is a big problem in the city, it is a problem we don't normally have the resources to deal with adequately, as we deal with the more serious crimes.

"However, in the light of the increased fines on offer, it was thought now was a suitable time to run a campaign.

"The news is not all bad for cyclists as the officers will also keep an eye out for cycle crime and it is hoped the small minority of bike thieves who operate in the city will be caught over the next few weeks."

Police in Kidlington launched a crackdown on pavement cyclists in August after pensioner Tony Burford, 68, was knocked flying by a young boy on a bike. Mr Burford, of Evans Lane, Kidlington, was left with a lump on his head and severe bruising.