A PLAIN-CLOTHED operation targeting drivers who do not give cyclists enough room could soon be rolled out across the Worcestershire after proving a success in Bromsgrove.
Last Thursday, January 25, officers from the West Mercia and Warwickshire Operational Policing Units and the Bromsgrove Safer Neighbourhood Team held the ‘Close Pass’ scheme saw officers remind drivers that the Highway Code states a safe distance to give bikes is 5ft (1.5metres).
Police officers in plain clothes cycled around areas and captured footage of any motorist passing too close before informing officers waiting ahead who pulled over drivers to speak to them about the safety aspects.
PC Dave Mulhall (Warwickshire Police) and Sgt Dave King (West Mercia Police) led the scheme which ran along the Finstall Road in Aston Fields.
It was also watched by independent observer and Margaret Sherrey, Community Ambassador for the West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner.
Sgt King said: “Our Chief Constable is the current national lead for roads policing matters and these safer roads schemes support vulnerable road users such as cyclists.
“Our alliance colleagues from Warwickshire have run the scheme to good effect in areas including Rugby.”
He added whilst no one was penalised for their actions, it was important to educate drivers of the dangers when overtaking a cyclist to promote harmony for all road users.
And he said there were plans to roll out the Close Pass scheme across the force in the near future.
WHAT do you think about the Close Pass scheme? Are you a cyclist on roads in Worcestershire? Do you feel drivers give you enough space and consideration? Email your views to [email protected]
