A DEDICATED cycle team has been formed to support neighbourhood policing in the Abingdon area.

Police said the main function of the team is to help reduce crime, disorder and fear of crime. They will use intelligence and community information to target hot spots of crime and antisocial behaviour, and persistent offenders.

They will help to address neighbourhood issues such as antisocial behaviour, which is the top priority for the South Abingdon neighbourhood. They are able to assist officers in enforcing the dispersal order in the area.

The team will liaise with other agencies including the neighbourhood action group (NAG), businesses, licences, council departments and the local community.

Insp Christian Bunt said: "The officers are able to get around the area quickly while still being approachable and visible to the public.

"The mountain bikes are versatile and enable officers to access areas they couldn't get to by car, but much faster than on foot.

"Cycle teams have been extremely effective in other areas and I am confident this team will have a real impact on the area."

The bicycles can also be used by special constables when the cycle team are not on shift.

Insp Bunt added: "The team is already starting to make an impact and we will look to increase it in the future."