YOUTHS have been warned to stop zigzagging into traffic on bikes and scooters on city roads after several near misses.

A photo was shared across Facebook earlier this week showing two youths riding in the middle of Bilford Road, Worcester, apparently ‘zigzagging’ in and out of traffic. One is facing into opposing vehicles and they are in dark clothing despite it being in the early evening.

City councillor Neil Laurenson, who represents St Stephen ward where the photo was taken, said people are “taking their lives into their own hands” by undertaking such activity. An eyewitness said: “Luckily myself and another driver were able to brake, next time they may not be so lucky.”

County councillor for St Stephen ward Matthew Jenkins said he has witnessed similar incidents in the area and believes “we need to find a way to get these kids off our busy roads if they want to do stunts”.

“It is exceedingly dangerous and a young cyclist was hit a year or two ago in this very area.

“It is an area I regularly cycle on and many regular cyclists find it a dangerous road when cycling normally, so it is very worrying that these, what appear to be young lads, are putting themselves at risk and causing a lot of concern for drivers.” He went on to say, he is part of the Bike Worcester group which wants to find a place a pump track, ideally at Perdiswell. The councillor said it would “allow young people and others a place to have fun on their bikes in safety”. “Hopefully these cyclists can be identified and persuaded to find safer places to ride their bikes,” he added.

Cllr Laurenson said it’s a dangerous stretch due to poor visibility and excessive speeds, particularly where it joins Astwood Road, and that section “needs urgently redesigning to make it safe” for everyone.

A county council spokesman said the council is “aware of this problem and understands the concerns residents have. We will look into the issue”.

PCSCO Kylee Berry, of Claines and Arboretum Safer Neighbourhood Team, urged people to report all anti-social behaviour to police by calling 101. She said a successful operation was carried out earlier this year in which it was made clear: “If anyone is seen to act anti-socially on their bikes, we have the power to seize the bikes.”

The PCSO said it is also important to re-educate those involved, making sure they are aware of the risks when behaving antisocially. “Not only are they putting themselves in danger they could cause a serious accident to other road users,” she added.