POLICE are hunting "reckless" criminals who strung a washing line across Main Street, Sutton-in-Craven, in the dead of night.

It was suspended at chest height and posed a serious risk to passing bikers and cyclists.

The green plastic line was discovered by a member of the public at 11pm on Thursday, February 12, near to the junction with Albert Street.

Insp Geoff Crocker, of Craven Rural Team, said: "Placing something of this nature across a road where it could cause serious injury to a cyclist or motorcyclist or potentially damage a vehicle is utterly reckless."

He added that under Section 22A of the Road Traffic Act 1988 it was a criminal offence to intentional take action (such as putting an obstruction in the road) that caused potential danger to someone on or near a road.

The maximum sentence is seven years in prison.

Insp Crocker added: "In this case we are all very fortunate that a member of the pubic removed the line before anyone was injured and I would like to thank that person for their common sense and swift action."

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Cross Hills Police on 101 or the confidential Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111. Please quote reference number 12150024665.