Letter: A bad name for cyclists
Once again I find myself complaining about the thoughtless actions of cyclists, not all obviously, just those who either don't know, or refuse through ignorance that they should give to others what the highway code advises them so to do.
It states quite clearly that, if there is no cycle lane, then you must use the road, not the footpath, which is supposed to be for pedestrians only with concession for wheelchair and disabled transportation only allowed at the politeness of pedestrians.
The other day I was walking along Harlescott Lane, close to the railway crossing, when I heard cycle bells being rung behind me. I, thinking that a car had probably cut up this cyclist, ignored the bell. The next thing I know I am being told to "get out of the way".
I turned to see a middle aged man on a racing cycle, so naturally I told him of the rule that regards cyclists on footpaths. After what seemed ages of argument he conceded and used the road properly, after apologising for the foul language he had used.
Unfortunately, not all are prepared to use the proper facilities, and not all are humble enough to accept that it is they, not the pedestrians, that are at fault. Until proper cycling tests are used at schools or a retraining facility for those who are too stubborn to adhere to the rules, this problem will only manifest itself.
M Eddies, Shrewsbury
