A driving instructor is calling for all cyclists to take a mandatory proficiency test before they are allowed on the roads.

Nayesh Radia, who lives in Mill End, says he is shocked by the standard of cycling he often sees while out taking lessons with his students.

As a result of his experiences, Mr Radia has developed a “share the road” initiative, which involves cyclists being trained to national Level 3 before being allowed to use main roads, and he hopes it will eventually be made mandatory.  

“Cyclists pose a real danger to pedestrians. It’s very topical at the moment because of the Kim Briggs situation,” he said, referencing the case of the pedestrian who was recently killed after being knocked down by a cyclist.

“Anyone can go out and buy a bike, which is great, but the moment you take that bike on the road it becomes a vehicle. Everyone who rides on the road needs to be trained.

“I want to change attitudes to make cyclists more responsible and accountable. Some people can ride a bike competently but not proficiently for main roads. Lots of people overtake without looking over their shoulder, for example. Awareness and education will improve safety.”

Mr Radia’s grand plan also involves new road-using cyclists registering themselves and their bikes on a national database in a similar way to motorists, and he is currently developing the technology to make this idea a reality.

This, he says, will help reduce theft and make cyclists more accountable if they break the law, for example if they run a red light or generally ride irresponsibly, as is the case with many youngsters in the Watford area currently.

The driving instructor, who also trains cycling proficiency as part of a county council initiative, is running a trial with 10 riders at the end of the month to get them up to the national proficiency standard.

He will then use the feedback to push for a wider trial with Hertfordshire County Council.

And he says the concept has been well received by a number of local figures so far, such as Watford MP Richard Harrington, and county councillor Ralph Sangster.