A plain clothed police officer was used to warn motorists about cycle safety after recent changes to the Highway Code. 

Drivers on Finchampstead Road in Wokingham town were taught a lesson in overtaking cyclists safely under a joint initiative between Wokingham Borough Council (WBC) and Thames Valley Police (TVP). 

If a motorist overtook the officer without leaving a gap of 1.5m, while travelling up to 30mph, he would radio a colleague who would pull them over and advise them to leave more room in future or risk a fine and points on their licence.  

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A sergeant at TVP, Dave Hazlett, said: “We appreciate that this is a busy commuter area but the safety of cyclists is of paramount importance. 

“It’s also a two-way process and we would urge cyclists to ensure they’re observing the rules by, for example, stopping at red lights or roundabouts.” 

Other highway code changes include cyclists to ride at least 0.75m from the kerb and drivers to leave a 2m gap at speeds above 30mph. Larger vehicles should leave a 2m gap regardless. 

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Assistant director for highways and transport at WBC, Andy Glencross, said: “[...] Drivers should be aware that the consequences could be more serious in future – both for them and anyone injured by unsafe overtaking.