Tube police buy motorbikes

The people responsible for law and order on the Tube have invested in high-powered motorbikes to get around delays on the network.

British Transport Police have launched a six-month pilot scheme in which four officers will carry out two-wheeled patrols in an effort to "cut time and fight crime".

Costing £10,000 each, the Pan-European 1100cc motorbikes have flashing blue lights, red "stop" signs and a mini fire extinguisher. And on bikes capable of travelling up to 130 mph, the officers will be able to reach crime scenes in a fraction of the time it would take to use the Tube.

Inspector Tom Weir said: "We're using them to reduce the time it takes to respond to urgent calls. We do have a lot of officers out on foot patrol on the Underground, but if they require urgent assistance or if the lines are suspended, we can get there much more quickly."

The scheme, which is being piloted at Finsbury Park, will be expanded if successful.

Chief Supt Steve Hotston, BTP London Underground area commander, said: "This will be particularly useful if a Tube line has to be suspended for any reason." While the motorbikes may help to beat delays on the Tube and traffic-filled roads, they are a blessing for the four lucky officers.

Team member Pc Tim Long said: "We're all keen bikers so it's a bit like an early Christmas present for us."

And commuters forced to endure continued Tube delays could be forgiven for feeling envious of their new toys.