Crackdown on Heath's rogue cyclists

ROGUE cyclists, who have chosen the wrong path, have been targeted in a crackdown by Hampstead Heath bosses. Two riders have been successfully prosecuted this week for cycling on a path where bikes are banned. A Kentish Town woman was penalised for riding

ROGUE cyclists, who have chosen the wrong path, have been targeted in a crackdown by Hampstead Heath bosses.

Two riders have been successfully prosecuted this week for cycling on a path where bikes are banned.

A Kentish Town woman was penalised for riding on the path which leads from Highgate Ponds past the children's play area and a Muswell Hill man was prosecuted for breaking bylaw 13 for cycling on a path near the Lido.

At Highbury Corner Magistrates Court last week both were fined �25, ordered to pay �100 costs and victim surcharge of �15. They were given two weeks to pay up.

A City of London spokesman said: "Cycling on the Heath on prohibited paths is completely unacceptable and these successful prosecutions should send a message to cyclists that it will not be tolerated." The issue of cycling on the Heath has been a hot topic for a long time with many riders campaigning for more paths to be opened up for their use.

But walkers and conservationists have vehemently opposed any move.

As reported in last week's Ham&High, Transport for London has agreed to put up �150,000 to widen and install a speed limiting surface on three existing shared use paths for cyclists and pedestrians.

And it was not just two wayward wheels the Heath Constabulary have been looking to target.

They have also had dangerous dogs in their sights with one owner of a pooch fined after her mutt bit a jogger on the Heath.

The Belsize Park woman was prosecuted for not having her dog under control.

The animal must now be muzzled and has also recei-ved specialist behaviour training.