CYCLISTS who flout traffic laws in Chester are being warned to get their act together or risk prosecution.
City officials have revealed they plan to crack down on bike users who break the law following several reports of near-collisions on roads across the city centre.
Residents have also complained to officials that cyclists are shooting through red lights and cycling on pavements, putting pedestrians at risk of injury.
Alarmingly, Government data shows nationwide there was a 20 per cent rise in cyclist deaths and serious injuries last year.
Meanwhile, figures from Chester Cycle show the area is on target to double the number of people using their bikes by 2011.
Sgt Ian Stead, of Cheshire Constabulary, said at public meetings he had witnessed a number of complaints over cyclists who break the law.
He said: "I have to say quite clearly that our stance is safety for all, including motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.
"But we cannot progress this purely through legislation. We have to educate people with what is safe on the road. We also have to be in a safe position to deal with it ourselves.
"Cyclists who break the law is something that is of concern. For instance, if you live in an area where your house is directly on a pavement and you step out of the door and are narrowly missed by a cyclist, it can be very frightening."
He added: "Cyclists are under an obligation to consider the safety of other road users and I would like that message to be passed on."
Cheshire West and Chester Council spokeswoman Shirley Wingfield added: "We believe the majority of cyclists like all other road users are responsible and compliant with regulations and provisions made for them.
“Regrettably, as in all walks of life, there is a minority who are not compliant and this is a matter for police enforcement which we continue to work with Cheshire Police to ensure happens."
Cyclists are being reminded they are bound by the Highway Code just as any other road user.
They are told never to jump red lights, ride on pavements, pedestrian crossings or ride the wrong way in one-way streets.
In addition, they must think ahead, stay visible and move over when it is safe and convenient.
Gurminder Marwaha, of the Cheshire Safer Roads Partnership, said: "Motorists and cyclists both have a right to use the roads - a right to safe and enjoyable travel; drive safe and cycle safe. All road users share a responsibility to understand each other’s needs and must obey the laws regardless of their mode of transport.
"Jumping red lights is illegal, incredibly dangerous and puts yourself and others at great risk, with potentially fatal consequences."
He added: "Mutual respect and consideration make for safer and more enjoyable travel. Always acknowledging a courtesy does make a difference."
If road users are unsure about the law, the Highway Code is available at www.direct.gov.uk.