Anger after child hit by bicycle

The father of a three-year-old who was knocked over by a cyclist in a pedestrianised street, and suffered a broken leg, wants safety measures to be stepped up.

Paul Chaplin's son Max was struck in Northbrook Street in Newbury, Berkshire.

Police are trying to track down the cyclist, who apologised but rode on.

Mr Chaplin said he was furious that buses and cycles are allowed to operate in a pedestrianised zone.

His wife was walking with Max along the pavement towards the canal bridge.

This child has suffered a nasty injury, but the cyclist only stopped briefly to say sorry Pc Martin Danks, Thames Valley Police

As they passed the junction of Northcroft Lane a cyclist emerged from the narrow alleyway and collided with the child.

Mr Chaplin said: "[The cyclist] kind of turned round and shouted 'sorry, sorry, I didn't see him' but then kind of just rode off as quickly as possible."

Max was taken to hospital with a broken leg and has been put in a cast from his ankle to his hip.

Mr Chaplin said: "I think we've all been worried as Newbury residents for quite some time that the pedestrianisation really isn't up to scratch."

He has now written to West Berkshire Council calling for extra measures to be put in place to ensure the safety of all pedestrians.

Thames Valley Police said the cyclist was a teenager with blond spiky hair.

He was wearing a yellow and white hooded top and was seen with three other males, who were also on bikes.

Pc Martin Danks said: "This child has suffered a nasty injury, but the cyclist only stopped briefly to say sorry.

"I am keen to track down this cyclist and anyone who was in the area at the time who witnessed the incident."