Ring your bells (From Bromsgrove Advertiser)

Ring your bells

2:00pm Friday 3rd August 2012 in Your View

MY attention was drawn to your news item concerning proposed improvements for better access for cyclists using the canal towpaths in and around Droitwich Spa. I am prompted to make an urgent plea on behalf of us pedestrians who also enjoy walking along the canal, but are frequently overtaken without warning due to the lack of a bell signifying the approach of a bike.

Recently, while walking on a narrow stretch of the canal in Vines Park, I paused to watch some newly-hatched ducklings when a cyclist dangerously undertook between me and the grass verge.

Had I stepped forward at that point to take a closer look, either myself or the cyclist could well have been injured or ended up in the water. My remonstration at this thoughtless action met with complete disregard and I was left feeling shaken and upset. In my opinion, bells on bikes should be mandatory. As things are, walking along the canal is made fraught by the need to remain on constant alert.

So please, you silent cyclists, get a bell fitted and make sure that you use it to warn us of your approach as a common courtesy to pedestrians who also have a right to enjoy their local amenity.

Jean Davies via e-mail