YOUNG cyclists who ride on the pavements are breaking the law, police warned today.

Inspector Bob Ford, co-ordinator and station manager for Accrington Police, advised parents to stop children from riding on footpaths.

They should be encouraged instead to ride safely on the road, wearing protective headgear and high visibility clothes.

And he recommended all children take a cycling proficiency test and, if possible, cycle with supervision.

He said pavement riders were a growing concern as an increasing number of youngsters seemed to be taking up cycling as a hobby.

Insp Ford issued the warning after Oswaldtwistle couple Alexander and Ida McKnight had a near-miss with two young bike riders outside Accrington Arndale Centre on Tuesday.

And it follows the death of 65-year-old Margaret George, of Downham Street, Blackburn, who died after being knocked down by a cyclist in a freak accident at the weekend.

Mr McKnight, 60, of Edinburgh Drive, said he and his wife almost had to jump out of the path of the two cyclists when they passed in Union Street, Accrington.

He said: "They came flying down the path and nearly knocked us over.

"The street was quite busy but they just swerved round without slowing down.

"These teenagers also ride through parks without a thought for pedestrians and there could easily be another nasty accident."

Insp Ford added: "Anybody who rides a bicycle on the footpath or pavements is committing an offence and is obviously a danger to pedestrians."

He said the police would take the details of any cyclists caught riding on the pavements and they could be reported for the offence.

National Bike Week begins on June 7.

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