BOBBIES in Castle Point will be getting on their bikes after officers received four new cycles.

The Castle Point Crime and Reduction Partnership donated the Smith and Wesson bikes, taking the total number of on the beat in the borough to eight.

The bikes, two of which will be based on Canvey and two at Benfleet police station, will mean officers can cover greater distances and carry more equipment while on patrol.

District commander Chief Insp Paul Eveleigh said: "We first introduced bicycle patrols last year and they had an immediate impact.

"These patrols not only provide a reassuring presence on the street but also have a deterrent effect on would-be offenders.

"They know we can get to an incident quicker with the added benefit of being able to approach quietly, using back-roads and alleyways."