This in from the Police, in their own words. Ed
Police in Ryde on the Isle of Wight are continuing a project to help make young cyclists safer on the roads.
Officers have noticed an increase in the number of children and teenagers using bicycles that have no identification and no security.
The Ryde Town Safer Neighbourhoods team is working with local Ryde business ‘Tav Cycles’ on a campaign to prevent cycle thefts.
Officers offering security advice
Officers have been on duty at Ryde Skate Park on the town’s seafront to speak with young cyclists about safety and security.
Dozens of cyclists took up the opportunity to complete a registration card, which included full details of their bikes. Quality cycle locks were available along with security labels that can help the police to find and identify a bicycle if it is reported stolen.
Officers were also concerned earlier this year at the numbers of children and teenagers cycling in Ryde at night without any lights or high visibility reflective clothing.
Importance of lights on bikes highlighted
Police on patrol in the town have given cyclists caught riding with no lights at night a simple choice: Face prosecution or have lights fitted to their bikes. Lights were also available during the campaign at Ryde Skate Park.
PC Rich Veitch of the Ryde Town Safer Neighbourhoods team said: “By taking these steps, we hope to make younger cyclists safer, prevent cycle thefts, and increase the chances of bikes being found if they’re reported stolen.
“Motorists and pedestrians have made complaints about cyclists with no lights, and we want to reduce the risks of a collision where someone could be injured or killed.
“Police are grateful to Tav Cycles for their time and support. We welcome opportunities to work alongside local businesses that have the staff and skills to help us keep the island a safe place.”
Appreciate cycle safety from Police
One parent who brought their family to the event was Garry Stretch from Ryde, Isle of Wight.
He said: “I really appreciate the police putting cycle safety first. This is an excellent scheme, which makes me feel safer about my children when they’re out on their bikes.”
For more information about your local Safer Neighbourhoods team and our current policing priorities, go online to www.hampshire.police.uk and type in your postcode.
You can contact the Ryde Town Safer Neighbourhoods team by phoning 101 or emailing [email protected]
From outside Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, call police on 0845 045 45 45. Mini-Com users can call the police on 01962 875000. Information can be given anonymously by calling the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.
