Picture Ref: 77040-53CYCLISTS are putting pensioners and young children at risk of serious injury by tearing through the town centre.

An elderly woman suffered a head injury and a young boy was badly shaken up after being hit by bikes recently.

Now police are cracking down on riders who break the law by refusing to dismount in the pedestrian zone.

Offenders face a £30 on-the-spot fine, which must be paid within 28 days.

The fines will be enforced by town centre cops, who have just been joined by two new community support officers.

PC Andy Alexander, who covers the town centre, said: "It is dangerous and annoying, and there is no excuse," he said.

"There are several signs up warning cyclists to dismount.

"Those who carry on peddling know they are in the wrong or else they wouldn't jump out of the saddle as soon as they see a policeman.

"They are especially dangerous to vulnerable people like OAPs, the disabled and small children.

"It's not even much of a short cut, you might as well use the one way system."

Cyclists must dismount when entering the central pedestrian core around Bridge Street, Regent Street, Canal Walk and the Parade.

PC Alexander said cyclists were causing concern for shoppers and traders alike.

"Some people might say it is a minor issue, but this is about improving the town centre," he said.

"It is not about spoiling someone's day, it's about making it safer and more attractive to shoppers."

The move has been welcomed by traders.

Town centre manager Bernie McGuire said: "I am aware of a number of accidents, and I know a child was knocked over at Christmas.

"We often get complaints from elderly pedestrians.

"At the end of the day, the pedestrian area is promoted as an area where people can walk safely."

Maggie Aldridge, who manages Oxfam in Regent Street, said cyclists who ignore the warning signs are a menace.

"We get a lot of elderly people in the store, and they often complain about them," she said.

"I suffered a mobility problem recently, and it is hard to get out of the way quickly.

"They just expect you to move suddenly, and swear if you don't get out of the way." The Adver spotted several cyclists riding through the centre yesterday.

Tamash Lal