IN his latest missive, Philip Whitelegg once again calls for a ban on promenade cycling and suggests high penalties for those who disobey (“High penalty for breaking the rule”, July 13).

Currently, the fine for seafront cycling outside allowed hours, too fast or without care is £75 but this can be increased by the courts up to £500 (plus costs).

How much does Mr Whitelegg propose we increase this to? Compare this with the recently reported No Excuses case of a woman caught doing 95mph on the A338 getting a fine of £60. There is no doubt this sort of behaviour costs lives – this is a massive contrast with any danger posed by bikes.

The seafront offices do carry out exercises where they trap and prosecute those who break the bylaws.

The number of man-hours spent against the total number of cyclists is likely much higher than the current police hours/vehicle number ratio. Yet we face far more danger as a pedestrian on our local roads than on the prom.

I would like to see this “record of injuries” that Mr Whitelegg refers to. I fail to see why offences against current legislation lead us to conclude a ban is supported.

For heaven's sake, get some perspective and put your energy into issues that really impact on people's health and quality of life.

MIKE CHALKLEY, Cowper Road, Bournemouth