A COUNCILLOR is demanding action to stop cyclists riding on pavements after a man was hit by a bike and suffered a hip injury in Southend town centre.

The 62-year-old man was taken to Southend Hospital after the accident in the High Street, near Alexandra Street.

Mike Assenheim, an independent councillor representing Shoebury, is now calling for police to stop people who use their bikes in the pedestrianised areas, which is a criminal offence.

Mr Assenheim said: "This accident has been waiting to happen for a long time." In a letter to Southend police, he added: "I have personally seen police community support officers and officers ignoring cyclists in the precinct, and on these occassions have raised questions with them there and then.

"May I suggest examples of these offenders have to be made before more injuries, or deaths, occur."

However, police say if they see anyone on a bike in a pedestrianised zone they will act.

Officers can also issue fixed penalty notices to persistent offenders. Sgt Jon Martin, from Southend central neighbourhood policing, said: "Officers always tell people riding to get off their bike and walk.

"If a cyclist is riding dangerously they will be issued with a £50 fine."

However, Mr Assenheim remains frustrated the issue has not been dealt with by the area's Police and Community Consultative Group.

He said: "I have personally been raising the matter over the years at many public meetings, including with the group.

"Every time the question is raised the chairman always dismisses the matter as not being important.

"I have been raising this issue and the speed these cyclists go at for a long time now. They need to be stopped."

Former chairman of the group and Southend Tory councillor, Brian Kelly, said: "We have frequently discussed the issue at meetings, but unfortunately it tends to take over meetings.

"It is difficult to police because officers have other priorities.

"I am sorry to hear someone has been injured."