Cambridgeshire Live readers have had their say about the lack of fines for cyclists using footpaths.

Surprising figures have revealed that no one was fined for cycling on the pavement last year in Cambridgeshire - despite record numbers of pedestrians injured by bikes nationally.

It is against the law for cyclists to ride on footpaths unless they are designated as shared paths.

Cyclists caught riding on the pavement are given a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) and are ordered to pay a fine of £50, but this increases if not paid within 28 days.

The number of fines being handed out has decreased nationally since 2010/11.

But pedestrians are still being injured by cyclists on the footpath.

It is against the law for cyclists to ride on footpaths

According to figures on accidents reported to the police, 2017 saw the highest number of pedestrians injured in accidents involving cyclists on pavements since comparable figures began in 2005.

The story, published earlier today (February 13) on Cambridgeshire Live, prompted a huge reaction online from locals.

Here's what everyone had to say about it.

One person said: "I want to know why we have built cycleways when cyclists still insist on riding on the road, namely Coldhams Lane bridge."

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Do you think cyclists should be fined for riding on the pavement?


Another said: "This just reinforces what we have known for years in the pecking order for getting about Cambridge cyclists sit at the top untouchable do what they want and pedestrians are at the bottom with motor transport the cash cow in the middle."

Some people said that cycle proficiency courses could solve the problem.

One person said: "I note that it's more expensive to have cycle training for an hour as part of a large group than it is to have a one to one driving lesson.

"These are things that should be taught (at least in Cambridge) from aged 11 upwards."

Cyclists on the road in Cambridge

Several people said it was part of a wider problem police are facing due to a lack of resources.

Someone said: "I see this has turned into the normal Car vs Cyclist nonsense, If Cyclists are breaking the law, fine them, if motorists break the law fine them.

"The main issue is there are not enough police to enforce the laws, so little will be done."

Another said: "Police are as stretched as it is... would you rather they go after cyclists riding on the pavements or London county-lines drug gangs?"

Someone else said: "The police don't even have time to deal with much more serious offences. Cyclists riding on pavements? I don't think so."

Some people suggested pedestrians are part of the problem. One wrote: "Not usually a crime in this country, but what about jaywalking pedestrians?

"Many  cyclists  have  been  injured  by  stupid  pedestrians  walking all over the roads and cycleways often playing with their mobiles."

Some people suggested that improving cycling lanes would encourage more people to use them.

One person said: "If the Cambridge/UK builds a decent, joined-up infrastructure then people will use it.

Some people said cycle lanes should be improved

"Cambridge likes to shout about how many people cycle, that's mainly because of three things: the traffic congestion, the cost of parking, the cost of fuel."

Another person said: "More concern should be about the number of cyclists with no lights, dark clothing and running red lights, especially since it now seems 'legal' for cyclists to ride anywhere including wrong way on one-way streets."