West Yorkshire Police issued the update on its JogOn campaign which was launched by the Safer Bradford partnership, including Bradford Council, last year.

Female police officers posing as runners are among the ways that police are making the district safer for people exercising outdoors.

Those found to be harassing women could face a fine of up to £1,000.

It was brought to life in the hopes that perpetrators will realise their behaviour is not “harmless banter”.

The latest action came from the Bradford East NPT, which responded to recent reports of harassment along the canal around the Apperley Bridge area. 

The JogOn Team carried out active patrols, displayed posters and spoke to people about personal safety advice.

Further active patrols will take place in Silsden, Bingley, Keighley and Saltaire.

Anyone who has been harassed, catcalled or made to feel unsafe whilst out exercising should report the incidents via the new JogOn reporting form (https://forms.office.com/e/EF6ppChVWU)

Superintendent Beth Pagnillo, of West Yorkshire Police, said women should be able to “run freely without being concerned”.

“A build-up of these incidents can make women change their running route, avoid certain locations and choose not to run in the dark,” she added.

“This is not acceptable.”