MORE than 360 cyclists were stopped by police during a two-month campaign in Felixstowe to raise awareness of safety issues.Cyclists were stopped for riding on footpaths and not using lights after dark, with 64 riders being issued fixed penalty notices and two reported for summons.

MORE than 360 cyclists were stopped by police during a two-month campaign in Felixstowe to raise awareness of safety issues.

Cyclists were stopped for riding on footpaths and not using lights after dark, with 64 riders being issued fixed penalty notices and two reported for summons.

The campaign, which ran from August 18 until October 20, involved police officers and police community support officers stop a total of 369 people, 149 of which were aged under 16.

The aim of the initiative was to encourage responsible cycling and highlight important safety issues.

Felixstowe Neighbourhood Inspector Steve Gallant said: “The campaign appears to have had a positive effect in getting the message across, however we would remind parents that now the nights are drawing in they need to make sure their children are appropriately clad and their bikes are lit up if they are cycling after dark.

“A set of lights doesn't have to cost a lot and could save a life. If is important that cyclists consider both their own safety and the safety of pedestrians, and the campaign has focused attention on these issues.

“We will continue to deal pro-actively with those who flout the law.”