CYCLISTS who insist on riding after dark without lights are to be targeted in a new police crackdown.

Officers in York say they are a menace not only to themselves, but to pedestrians and motorists too.

Now police, fed up of giving offending cyclists verbal warnings only to see them walk around the corner and start cycling again, are to begin issuing on-the-spot fines.

Any cyclist caught without lights after dark could be liable to a £30 fine, says acting Sergeant Martin Metcalfe of York police. If that is not paid within 28 days it will rise to £45 - and if still not paid could lead to the offender being hauled before the courts.

The crackdown will apply throughout the York area - including suburbs such as Haxby, Strensall and Copmanthorpe.

"We are taking this very seriously," Sgt Metcalfe said. "There are a lot of pedestrians, young children and elderly people walking through the streets shopping at this time of year. A cyclist without lights is a danger to them as well."

Updated: 10:34 Wednesday, December 12, 2001