Cyclists who continue to pedal through a pedestrianised street in Bicester are being warned the police are about to get tough.

Sheep Street has two no cycling signs — one at each end — but they are ignored by many riders, according to Thames Valley Police.

Now officers are fed up stopping bikers to explain the rules and say they will start handing out £30 fixed penalty notices.

Town centre officer PC Nicki Entwistle said: “We get a lot of complaints, including from elderly people.

“We are fed up with people cycling through Sheep Street who constantly say they don’t understand the rules.

“We are trying to educate people – but if that doesn’t work then we will hit them with a fixed penalty.”

The move has been supported by town mayor James Porter.

Mr Porter said: “Sheep Street is there for shoppers and generally shoppers like to take their time.

“I think it’s good that the police are giving prior notice and not coming in heavy handed.

“While we don’t want to stop cyclists they should take notice of that area.

“It’s important shoppers get the opportunity to shop without looking for cyclists.”

Cyclist David Robertson, from Wendlebury, got an on-the-spot fine for riding along Sheep Street last year and has walked his bike through the pedestrian zone every since.

He said: “Sheep Street is pedestrianised and there are kids running around so someone could easily be knocked over.

I’m happy to see them clamping down.”