POLICE in Southampton are turning to pedal power to tackle antisocial behaviour across the city.

From today, a team of officers will be patrolling on hi-spec mountain bikes equipped with police livery, lights, sirens and blue flashing lights.

The Southampton tactical cycle team, based at Hulse Road divisional police headquarters, has been months in the planning.

This week's launch follows funding from Southampton City Council, which has provided the squad of 11 officers with bikes and a secure cycle cage to store them in.

Officers will be able to respond to incidents and go out on directed patrol, covering the city centre and Portswood areas primarily, including the common and sports centre, and will help target antisocial behaviour.

The bikes are similar to those already deployed by police in Portsmouth and Sussex. Insp Jon Snook, who is charge of the unit, said: "It's not about putting beat bobbies on bikes, this is a dedicated unit which has a real response capability.

"It represents one step on from other cycle units, and we're really expecting the team to deliver results and be of real benefit to the city."

Councillor Adrian Vinson, leader of Southampton City Council said: "The formation of the Southampton tactical cycle team will be extremely beneficial for tackling antisocial behaviour problems in the city.

"Dealing with this type of nuisance behaviour is a very important issue and the council is pleased to be able to provide the police with special bikes, enabling a quick response to antisocial incidents."

The team comprises a sergeant, five police constables and five part-time special constables. All have been issued with a special cycle uniform, including protective head-gear, white absorbent polo shirt with police markings, cargo trousers and a reflective all-weather cycle jacket.

It is also planned to provide the unit with cameras for their cycle helmets to aid evidence-gathering to help combat juvenile, nuisance and antisocial behaviour.