CYCLISTS have been given a stern warning over their future conduct following reports of urinating in the street and other anti-social behaviour while passing through Great Budworth.

Caroline Marshall, Great Budworth Parish Council clerk, sent a letter to numerous cycling clubs around Cheshire on behalf of the council.

The council accused riders of travelling through the village at ‘dangerous speeds’ and called on cyclists to be more considerate to residents.

The letter said: “We have received a number of complaints from residents within the village regarding the conduct of cyclists riding though the village.

“Frequently cyclists come through Great Budworth at a dangerous speed (often in group formations) that are dangerous to both other road users and pedestrians.

“Whilst we appreciate that riders enjoy travelling through such a picturesque village as ours we would like to ask them to be more considerate of the residents who live there.”

Great Budworth Parish Council went on to accuse cyclists of urinating near historical landmarks in the village.

“Repeatedly cyclists are overheard using offensive language and generally shouting as they travel through,” the letter said.

“It has also been reported that cyclists have been seen urinating in the street, and within both our Upper and Lower Pump houses, historical landmarks in the village.

“We consider all of this conduct unacceptable and urge you strongly to remind your members about what should be considered acceptable behaviour.”

Mrs Marshall told the Guardian the letter was sent to ten cycling clubs around Cheshire, including Weaver Valley Cycling Club and North Cheshire Clarions.

She added that it was not specifically aimed at any particular groups.

Today, Weaver Valley Cycling Club and North Cheshire Clarions issued a joint statement, defending the conduct of their members.

The statement said the reports represent a ‘small minority’ of cyclists, and are unlikely to belong to either Weaver Valley Cycling Club, or any other organised clubs in the area.

It said: “Simply, the issues raised by the parish council do not refer to any of Weaver Valley Club, or North Cheshire Clarion club members, who ride with respect and to the Highway Code on all of the roads that we find ourselves on.

“We are well-known and respected local clubs who engage with our local communities with mutual respect and understanding.”