A team of beat bobbies have been transformed into e-cops, thanks to a pioneering hi-tech scheme.

The Shipley 'cybercops' have gone on line in the fight against crime with all seven of the area's beat managers now contactable for non-urgent matters by members of the public via e-mail.

Last year the Telegraph & Argus revealed how Saltaire's former beat manager PC Kash Singh, who is now a sergeant in Chapeltown, Leeds, had become the force's first ever community 'cyber cop' after securing the donation of computer equipment from Pace Micro Technology and Internet access from Bradford-based Legend.

And the equipment is now being used to put other members of the Shipley Community Action Team on line.

Sergeant Paul Robinson, of the team, said: "I'm not aware of anything quite like this happening anywhere else and it should be really useful.

"Many people have access to computers and e-mail these days and may well prefer to let their local officers know of problems via this medium.

"When the office is not manned it is easier for some people to explain their problem on e-mail rather than leaving a message on an answerphone.

"It is also an additional method by which beat managers can contact the public and respond to their concerns.

"This is particularly helpful for people who work away or are difficult to contact by telephone.''

Members of the public can also contact the officers by telephone on 01274 537441 or 537482.