On 19/05/2012 15:55, Zapp Brannigan wrote:

"Mrcheerful" wrote in message
...
Rat-running cyclists are endangering stall traders by using a
pedestrianised area as a short-cut, it has been claimed.

Mitcham residents and traders have become increasingly frustrated with
people on bikes using Mitcham town centre in order to avoid the busy
one-way traffic on Holborn Way.

Christine Higgs, 50, of Streatham Road, said: "They [cyclists] just come
screeching down the pavement on their bikes and try to swerve round you.

"They once hit my son, who is six, and I was really angry because they hurt
him but they didn't apologise. It is a big problem."

Stall trader Alan Hunt, 69, said: "In the morning when you are trying to
set up it is a nightmare because they [cyclists] just cut straight through
at high speed on their way to work.

"I have had my stall damaged by cyclists speeding in the past and it is
dangerous for my customers."

Poke an umbrella or walking stick into the spokes of any reckless cyclist,
stop them before they cause serious harm.

Would a piece of c. 1cm dowel not serve just as well and have the twin
advantages of cheapness and immediate easy replacement?