RECENT letters have described the illegal behaviour of many cyclists, a concern about which pedestrian groups have campaigned for many years, to no effect.

The problem has grown to the extent that the pavements of Headington are dangerous for pedestrians. I therefore wrote to my MP for help.

Andrew Smith replied promptly to say he had passed my letter to Thames Valley Police for comment.

Shortly after, Insp Ned Qureshi rang me for a very helpful discussion of all aspects of the problem, closing with his promise to look further into the matter together with associated groups.

A further letter from Mr Smith enclosed a copy of the response from the force’s Local Area Commander.

This gives assurance that the problem of cycling on the pavements is being reconsidered and that my suggestion of erecting signs to warn cyclists (excepting children) that this is illegal will be discussed with the city council and highways authority.

I am delighted at this response from my MP and the police.

I share with them my New Year’s wish that cyclists will be law-abiding and I may walk safely in the streets of Headington.

DOROTHY BIRTLES, Holley Crescent, Headington, Oxford