IPSWICH Police have warned cyclists who ride on pavements that they risk injuring pedestrians.

IPSWICH Police have warned cyclists who ride on pavements that they risk injuring pedestrians.

Officers spoke out as crowds of extra shoppers are soon expected in the town for Christmas shopping.

Police said they had received several complaints from the public about cyclists on pavements and in restricted pedestrian areas.

The pedestrian areas include Westgate Street, Cornhill, Tavern Street and Carr Street. The restrictions are in force between 10.30am and 4.30pm.

Acting inspector Claire Connick said: “We are taking the complaints very seriously and will work with Ipswich Borough Council and shops to target the problem.

“We aim to highlight the problem with an education phase and we will then move on to an enforcement phase to remove cyclists from the restricted areas to make shopping in the town centre safe and enjoyable.”

Police and community support officers will stop cyclists riding in the town centre on footpaths and in the pedestrian areas, give advice and record their details.

Those stopped on a second occasion will be issued with a £30 fixed penalty notice.

Police said the town centre should be a safe and enjoyable place to shop and shoppers should not face disruption or risk of injury.