MIKE Chalkley letter (Have Your Say, October 20) brought a wry smile to my face.

In Christchurch it is not the cyclists who are in danger, but the pedestrians.

In Bridge Street the pavement is the place to ride furiously, with or without a helmet.

Pedestrians scatter and if they are not quick enough, have to endure abuse and even aggressive ‘wheelies’ by younger riders.

Red traffic lights are usually ignored, as are notices to ‘Dismount’ at the High Street underpass.

The situation is sufficiently dangerous for police to put out officers who issue warnings and on -the-spot fines, though it seems not to reduce the number of offenders.

What is required, rather than helmets, are licensing, insurance and identity plates on the rear of the saddle.

It would then be possible to take some action other than watch the bobbing behind of a dangerous cyclist disappear.

I know, I know, more regulation – but if cyclists are to behave badly in crowded streets legislation is inevitable, and I say this as a pedestrian, a cyclist and a motorist.

ROY HARVEY, Bridge Street, Christchurch