Wyre police receive four new electric bikes to help with patrols

Police in Lancashire have received four new electric bikes to help with patrols across the community.

The four brand-new Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPCs) were provided to Wyre Neighbourhood Policing Team to enhance patrol capabilities and improve visibility.

They will allow officers to cover larger areas during shifts, respond more efficiently, and provide increased reassurance to residents, said Lancashire Police.

The initiative was made possible thanks to sponsorship and funding from local businesses, including Lofthouse of Fleetwood, HTI, NPL Estates, and BT, alongside support from national companies Norbain Holdings Ltd, AMG Systems, and AR Security Systems Ltd.

Local councillors also contributed funding to help bring the project to life.

The team worked in partnership with Giant Store Blackpool.

“We’re grateful to all the businesses and councillors who supported this initiative, helping bring this to fruition," said Andy Hill, Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant.

“These bikes are used by neighbourhood teams across Lancashire, and with four new EAPCs we will be able to cover more ground within our patrols.

"For Wyre communities, this means an increase in visibility and more engagement opportunities; as a result, we hope to see a decrease in criminal behaviour, such as anti-social behaviour and retail theft. 

“These EAPCs are covered by a legal framework and officers have undertaken a thorough course in order to ride them legally and safely.”    

Councillor Roger Berry, Deputy Leader and Neighbourhood Services and Community Safety Portfolio Holder for Wyre Council said: “We’re proud to support this initiative, which demonstrates what can be achieved when local businesses, councillors, and the police work together for the benefit of our communities.

"These new EAPCs will help officers cover more ground, respond quickly, and engage with residents, making Wyre an even safer place to live and work. We extend our sincere thanks to all partners, contributors and local councillors who made this project possible.” 

Safer Streets Winter of Action is a government initiative which sees police and partners work together to tackle retail crime, organised crime, street crime, antisocial behaviour, and night-time economy offences.

Running from December 1 to the end of January, it will feature extra high-visibility patrols in busy town centres, stronger partnerships, and firm enforcement.