Resident's call to ban cyclists on Bognor promenade

A Bognor Regis resident has called for the ban on seafront cycling to be enforced.

Molly Hawkins said she was shocked by the injuries suffered by an elderly friend who was knocked down by a cyclist.

"When are the council or police going to enforce the law and actually fine cyclists 100 as their notices promise '“ or at the very least give cyclists a line along the promenade so pedestrians can take avoiding action?

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"Or are they prepared to wait until someone dies or is permanently disabled and then face massive compensation to the victim?" she asked.

Mrs Hawkins, of Fraser Court, High Street, contacted the Observer this week because of the result of the collision between a cyclist and her frail friend in her 70s. The woman is suffering from the injuries which were caused.

She was walking along the pavement below the promenade opposite the Royal Norfolk Hotel at about 8.30am just before Christmas when she was knocked flying from behind by a cyclist. When I saw her the next day, I was shocked to see how badly her face was cut and bruised," said Mrs Hawkins.

"Both eyes were black, and she initially thought her nose was broken as it poured with blood and was extremely painful.

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"She was in a state of shock. Her legs and knees are still black and blue from the impact. She was left almost unconscious on the pavement. The cyclist didn't even stop."

Mrs Hawkins called for cyclists to at least have to use a bell to warn pedestrians of their presence.

"I have very good hearing, but I have almost been knocked down at least four times because bikes are so silent," she added.

"Some youngsters use the promenade and London Road as a race track, even though there are older and infirm folk and mothers with babies in buggies in what is supposed to be a safe precinct."

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