Rail firm takes tough line with cyclists

Train operator Southern has issued notices telling riders if they persist in leaving their bikes outside the designated area, it will remove them, despite the lack of space.

Southern said it would look into expanding the rack but tickets would continue to be issued until that happened.

A spokesman said: 'Southern is aware that cycle spaces are at a premium at Seaford station and we are looking into the feasibility of extending this facility at the station.'

Seaford cyclist Jeremy Malies said: 'It is becoming impossible to leave your bike at Seaford train station since so many people are choosing to cycle to the station.

'Travellers are now chaining their bikes to parts of the station not designed for this because the designated areas are full and Southern is putting white notices on the saddles of the bikes saying that if the owner persists the bike will be removed.

'It is an impossible situation. We are all supposed to be green by taking the train and riding to the station and not using cars after all.'