IN his Foreward to Worcestershire County Council's Local Transport Plan, Colin Beardwood, chairman, says: "Worcestershire will seek to make it safer and more convenient to walk and cycle..."

So far, there is little evidence of that, particularly in Evesham. I have long railed against the increasing use of the pavement by cyclists, endangering not only pedestrians, but cyclists themselves. Awareness of the law, and education, can do much to reduce the risk, and I note these are also contained in the council's strategy. In fact, the county has its own cycle officer, but I have seen little evidence of that post's impact.

The county's cycling strategy in its aims and objectives, includes: "develop a safe ...cycle structure" and: " reduce the local casualty rate for pedal cyclists". While cyclists themselves must take responsibility for their own actions the council and enforcement authorities appear to be doing little to facilitate or encourage responsible and safe cycling.

This must start with children, supported by parents. But too often parents are either oblivious to the cycling practices of their offspring, or couldn't really care. I exclude those who are responsible, and attempt to cycle within the law and safety rules, for there are a few of them. But they are in the minority.

It is interesting to note there are two levels of cycle training aimed at 9 - 12 year olds, but how many are they reaching? It is also interesting the transport plan acknowledges that " adult training schemes have suffered from lack of interest." From the evidence around us that appears to be an understatement. Safe cycling requires confidence, skill, and knowledge from the cyclist, a suitable infrastructure from the council, awareness of cyclists by other road users, and a strict enforcement regime.

What alarms me more than anything is the practice now common among the majority of cyclists to have no lights. This is madness, whether on the pavement or the highway. Do parents not check or remind their children of the dangers? Little Johnny may be encouraged to break the law by cycling on the pavement because it is believed to be safer, but then he can't be seen because he has no lights. Adults too are just as guilty. I have narrowly missed two cyclists recently who crossed my path practically unseen !

So come on cyclists, parents, police and council! If these stated aims are to be achieved, then it requires action from all, and I would start with better law enforcement so children and adults alike undertake cycle and safety awareness training. Let us also get appropriate cycle routes installed, and a campaign to educate other road users. And, if you meet a reckless pavement cyclist, or an unlit one, then politely point out the dangers. Pedestrian power can be effective!

Gerry O'Donnell, St. Pauls Close, Evesham, via email.