CYCLISTS caught riding on footpaths in Felixstowe could face fixed penalty tickets as part of a new police clampdown.Officers launched the campaign today - urging riders to keep of pavements and to remember to use lights on their bikes after dark.

Richard Cornwell

CYCLISTS caught riding on footpaths in Felixstowe could face fixed penalty tickets as part of a new police clampdown.

Officers launched the campaign today - urging riders to keep of pavements and to remember to use lights on their bikes after dark.

The campaign runs until Monday October 20 with officers stopping offending cyclists, issuing fixed penalty notices where applicable, and sending letters to parents of young people who are caught.

Felixstowe neighbourhood inspector Steve Gallant said the aim was to raise awareness of safety and encourage responsible cycling.

“I continue to get regular complaints about cycles being ridden on footpaths and without lights at night and the campaign will try to address these concerns,” he said.

“Riding in this manner causes a danger and inconvenience to pedestrians and to other road users, in addition to the hazard posed to the cyclists themselves.

“It is also unnecessary and illegal.

“Many of the main routes in Felixstowe have cycle lanes and even these are not being used.

“During our last campaign a significant number of fixed penalty notices were issued which resulted in a noticeable decline in the number of persons flouting the law.

“I hope that this campaign will have a similar effect. Officers have been directed to deal pro-actively and robustly with all offenders.”