A CAMPAIGN to keep cyclists off Banbury's pavements has been launched by Age Concern volunteer Neville Halford.

Former police officer Mr Halford is concerned about the increasing number of people who ride bicycles, often at speed, on pavements - and in the town's pedestrianised streets - forcing shoppers to take avoiding action.

He is being backed by Tony Ilott, chairman of the town centre neighbourhood action group (NAG), a body created to identify law and order and safety issues.

Mr Halford said: "It is only a matter of time before an elderly person is injured.

"Older residents are less mobile and cannot get out of the way as quickly as younger people.

"The number of people who ride bicycles on the pavements is growing, and the truth is, they have little regard for others.

"Why do we allow cyclists to use pavements as their 'cycle lane' irrespective of the danger to pedestrians and in contempt of the law.

"We have all seen these people swerving through shoppers more in hope than skill, and I have been a 'hit and run' victim myself.

"Age Concern Banbury is asking why we must wait for a pedestrian to be hurt, or worse, before action is taken."

Mr Ilott, who is also chairman of the Banbury and District Chamber of Trade, said: "I support Mr Halford every step of the way.

"Cycling on pavements is a menace and I know from personal experience how dangerous it can be.

"It is something that I will talk about at the next NAG meeting, and I will ask the police to enforce the law."

He added: "I know people are being encouraged to cycle instead of using cars, but there has to be some common sense used, and some consideration shown for others."

A statement from Thames Valley Police said: "Dangerous and anti-social riding of bikes is a concern especially in a pedestrianised area.

"New resources will soon be put in place and those caught riding dangerously will be dealt with. Two new PCSOs, who will be based solely in the town centre, are undergoing training and will soon be out on the beat.

"We hope this extra uniformed presence will reduce issues like this and help improve the quality of life for residents and those visiting the town."

  • Cycling on footpaths is prohibited by Section 72 of the Highway Act 1835. This is punishable by a fixed penalty notice of £30 under Section 51 and Schedule 3 of the Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988.