Dog-lovers call for safer cycling

Paths for cyclists are set aside in Kensington Gardens in west London

Celebrity dog owners Jenny Seagrove, Felicity Kendal and Maureen Lipman have urged cyclists to ride more carefully in parks to avoid colliding with pets.

At least two dogs have died this year after being hit by bikes in London's Kensington Gardens. Ms Seagrove said two further deaths went unreported.

This year 100 people have been fined up to £250 for dangerous cycling through the park.

Ms Seagrove urged people to "cycle with thoughtfulness" in designated areas.

"I'm a cyclist; I love cycling. I absolutely support the fact that cyclists should be able to go through the park," she told BBC London.

"But they're cycling - some of them very fast - where they're not supposed to be.

"Four dogs have been killed this summer. It could be a child."

'Designated routes'

The Royal Parks said that while cyclists needed to slow down in open spaces or parks, dog owners also had to ensure their pets were under control.

"The majority who cycle through the park do so without any concern to other park users," said park manager Tom Jarvis.

"They follow the designated cycle routes and they keep within the speeds that we'd like them to follow.

"There'll always be a minority within any user group who choose not to follow the regulations."