Cyclists offered advice sessions

Cyclists in Southend who are caught riding on pavements are being offered free one-to-one training sessions as an alternative to a £30 fine.

According to Southend-on-Sea police, cyclists riding on pavements have been a cause of concern for the public for some time.

Previously, penalty fines of £30 were issued, but now the police are attempting to tackle the root of the problem.

The cycle proficiency test, which consists of little more than negotiating traffic cones, has for the most part been replaced by Bikeability, a type of trianing more akin to that undertaken by motorcyclists.

Bikeability comprises three levels of training: level one builds the confidence of novice cyclists in an off-road environment; level two takes to quiet streets before level three finally tackles busier roads.

Protect your bicycle

Novice and experienced cyclists alike should consider getting adequate insurance for their bikes. Cycle insurance provider ilovemybike.co.uk covers includes third party liability, personnal accident and even a breakdown recovery service for rider and bike.

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