ALONG with students and townsfolk, the simmering tensions between pedestrians and cyclists is one of Oxford’s temper flashpoints.

Now cyclists and pedestrians in Headington have pledged to work together to improve harmony between those on two feet and two wheels.

Residents last week agreed to form a group to discuss the often competing needs of cyclists and pedestrians in the area.

Stephen Road resident and cylist Dominic Francis said: “If we all behave better then we will all get on better.

“As a cyclist, it is my main means of transport around Oxford but there is a great deal of room for improvement in the city’s infrastructure.”

Oxford City Council Liberal Democrat members Ruth Wilkinson and David Rundle organised the meeting at Headington School.

They said residents had expressed concern about cycling on pavements and use of some cycle routes.

Mrs Wilkinson said: “It’s really encouraging that our residents are taking the initiative and giving up their time to find ways to make our streets safer for everyone in Headington, pedestrians and cyclists alike.”

The group will report to Headington’s Neighbourhood Action Group to make recommendations to police and cycling chiefs.

Headington resident and Cyclox campaign group member Simon Hunt said: “There is nothing to stop anyone who sees a cyclist on the pavement approaching them and gently pointing out the error of their ways.

“I myself have had such conversations with teenage cyclists.”

Insp Marc Tarbit, who is in charge of policing in the Headington area, attended a meeting at last Tuesday.

He said: “Residents need to behave in a way they would want the wider community to behave. If they do see an abuse of the code of conduct they should tell us.”