IT'S a bit of a squeeze for a police force's tallest bobby to fit into the world's smallest police car.

Crime prevention officer PC John Hedley, based at Chester-le-Street, County Durham is 6ft 8in, while the Honda Smart car is just 6ft 6in long and only has room for a driver and passenger.

But the 599cc engine car, which is used by a handful of forces, can do 60 miles to the gallon in the right conditions.

The Durham force is trying out the vehicle, although it has no immediate plans to introduce it.

The car, which costs £7,000 to £8,000, will be on display at this Sunday's Bike Wise event at the force's headquarters, in Aykley Heads, Durham.

The family fun day, which focuses on motorcycle safety and is in its eighth year, attracts thousands of visitors and raises money for charity.

Attractions include the world's fastest police bike, a 160mph Honda VTR SP1, motorcycle stuntman Dave Coates and national trials bike champion Andy Hudleston, a Durham police sergeant.

Police and air ambulance helicopters, police vehicles and live music have also been lined up.

Drivers will be able to try their hand on the force's skid pan.

Event organiser Sergeant Bob Brown, head of the motorcycle unit, said: "A great deal of thought goes into Bike Wise.

"In the motorcycle section we work constantly with local clubs to promote bike safety and security, which is mainly what the day is about.

"John Hedley thought we were taking him for a ride when we asked him into squeeze into the Smart car.

"We are always willing to look at any vehicle which could do a job for us. Size truly doesn't matter," he said.

The event runs from 10am to 5pm and admission costs £1, children get in free.

There is no parking charge.