Police have started mounting regular patrols along Bradford's main canal in a bid to drive away muggers, vandals and drug takers.

While the picturesque waterways are popular with walkers and tourists, their secluded towpaths have also become a magnet for criminals.

A police spokesman said recent offences included robberies, drug crime, missiles being hurled at passing boats and cars being dumped into the water.

In a bid to halt the trend, British Waterways has supplied police with six mountain bikes to help them to patrol a troubled stretch running from Apperley Bridge to Leeds city centre.

The monitoring will be carried out by a ten-strong team from West Yorkshire Police's Underwater Search Unit who will wear high-visibility cycling uniforms.

Sergeant Dave Wright, who is leading the team, said: "Lots of people use the canal towpaths, whether to cycle to work or just to enjoy a walk, but unfortunately there is a small minority of people who can spoil it for them.

"Our patrols are all about making it a safer environment for people to enjoy by targeting any anti-social or criminal behaviour."

The scheme is part of the West Yorkshire force's Target initiative which aims to examine new methods of tackling crime.

Sgt Wright said: "We want people who use the towpaths lawfully to be reassured by our presence, and we want those who think they are out of reach of the police to realise that they are not." Bob Gray, British Waterways Maintenance Supervisor for the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, said the scheme would encourage more people to enjoy the facility.

He said: "Thousands make use of this spectacular waterway every year for a host of recreational pursuits, from angling, through walking and cycling to boating."

The team has already been patrolling over the last few weeks, and has made arrests, issued warnings and given advice. Mr Gray said people often did not know that activities such as swimming in the water were offences punishable by a fine of up to £100.

Sgt Wright added: "We have allowed a period of education where we have been warning people about these offences, but we will soon be starting to prosecute."