A CYCLIST has warned the public is losing patience with bike users because of their “almost constant stupidity”.

Deborah Golby, who has been cycling for nearly 45 years, says instead of blaming motorists for collisions and near misses, cyclists should work on their own skills on the road.

“I’m a cyclist myself, and I would never discourage people from getting on their bike, but it is at the stage now where I am seeing almost constant stupidity,” said Mrs Golby, 52, of Bromley Road, in Greenstead.

“When accidents happen, the public perception is that it is the motorist’s fault, but I can tell you now, it usually isn’t.

“We are seeing no end to the stupidity of some cyclists and as responsible cyclists, we need to acknowledge this.”

Mrs Golby also said she had seen several close shaves near to the University of Essex Knowledge Gateway, where cyclists had ignored red lights and continued on, causing motorists to brake suddenly.

“At the very least they should respect the rules of the road,” she added.

“I think all cyclists need to make sure they are safer on the road.”