We heard from one of our vision impaired clients in Doncaster who was out walking recently and sadly, an angry cyclist (approaching from behind and on the pavement) shouted at her as she tried to avoid an overhanging tree. This was obviously distressing for her, and particularly because cyclists are not meant to ride on pedestrian pavements.

As people are being encouraged to cycle more, which is a good thing in many ways, we would ask cyclists to be aware that a pedestrian may not hear you (especially if they have a hearing impairment) and may not be able to see you (if they have a sight problem). A bell would be useful to alert sight impaired people. We realise that many cyclists are considerate, but think it is worth reminding people to be kind to each other as the use of cycles increases.