FIREFIGHTERS are set to use pedal power to help tackle fire risks this summer.

London Fire Brigade will be launching its Community Safety Cycle Team in the borough as a result of a successful pilot in Hounslow.

The scheme will see a cycle team operate across Bromley, Bexley and Greenwich until October.

Riding specially-marked fire and rescue mountain bikes, the team of eight riders will patrol in pairs.

Bromley borough commander Andrew Holcombe said: "As well as helping us to prevent both accidental and deliberate fires, this is a chance to increase our presence and visibility in the community.

"It also gives them a chance to to work with the public and pass on our fire safety messages."

The riders will cover open land and parkland to identify potential arson sites, as well as fire risks in other areas such as abandoned vehicles and cylinders, unsecured empty properties and overgrown hedges.