A POLICE operation in York to catch cyclists who risk lives by breaking the rules of the road has been hailed a success.

Bikers who failed to put lights on their bikes in the dark were targeted in a winter campaign, tagged Operation Image, which saw a string of on-the-spot fines handed out to the offenders.

The roadside education initiative – run by North Yorkshire Police, Safer York Partnership and Cycling City York – was launched in November with the aim of reminding cyclists of the need to ensure that they can be clearly seen by all road users and pedestrians once the light fades.

Police stopped anyone seen riding a bike after dark without lights and the cyclists were issued with either a £30 fixed penalty ticket or a suspended fixed penalty notice that gave them a fortnight to ensure working lights were fitted to their cycle.

During the two month operation, a total of 68 14-day fixed penalty notices were issued; eight verbal warnings were given and 19 people were handed a £30 fixed penalty ticket.

Graham Titchener, programme manager for Cycling City York, said the crackdown “significantly reduced” the number of cyclists putting their lives and the lives of others at risk on the road.

“Since the start of Operation Image, there have been a number of neighbourhood policing teams out at key locations across York during the morning and evening rush hours working hard in all weathers to enforce safer cycling,” he said.

“It’s clear that the operation has had an impact as colleagues within the partner organisations that make up Cycling City York have reported seeing far fewer cyclists out after dark without lights.”

Fiona Willey, temporary sergeant and community safety officer for the Safer York Partnership, said: “I think Operation Image has proved really successful; each week since its launch there has been a marked reduction in the number of cyclists being seen without lights.

“Sadly, we know that there are a small minority of cyclists who continue to flout the law and we would encourage them to take a more responsible approach for their own safety and that of other road users and pedestrians.

“The message is loud and clear – if you don’t light up at night you face enforcement action.”