YOUNG people have got on their bikes during the half-term holidays.

Children had the chance to brush up on their cycling skills and to protect their bikes against thieves at an event in Hartlepool.

Bike MoTs were offered at Hartlepool Historic Quay and there was the chance to see vintage bikes on display at the town's Art Gallery.

Experts at both venues offered advice on health and safety and protective clothing. Instructors from Hartlepool Borough Council's Road Safety Unit also delivered a controlled riding course and there were also quizzes and free security stamping for bikes.

A spokesman for the road safety unit said: "It's much easier to return a stolen bike to its rightful owner if a bike had been registered and it was great to help the children improve their riding skills."

Published: 03/06/2004