THE town’s most dangerous hotspots for cyclists have been revealed.

Data obtained through a Freedom of Information request by the Warrington Guardian to Cheshire Police has identified the locations in the town where there have been clusters of cycling collisions between 2009 to 2013.

The junction of Fennel Street and Mersey Street has racked up the most accidents in the town between 2009 and 2013 with 11 collisions taking place with five categorised as serious.

The junction of Lythgoes Lane and Battersby Lane and the junction of Hollins Lane and Watery Lane were named in joint second with three accidents recorded for each.

From 2009 to 2013, there have been 402 accidents in the town involving cyclists with 78 noted as serious and one resulting in a fatality in 2011.

But, it can also be revealed that for the past three years, the recorded number of cycle accidents had dropped from 96 to 75.

Figures also show the most dangerous time for cyclists to be on the road in Warrington is on a Wednesday morning between 8am and 9am with 13 cycle collisions reported at this time.

In a bid to make the roads safer for cyclists, Warrington Borough Council has looked to provide provisions to help protect cyclists and to improve routes around the town.

Cycle maps, which highlight the routes suitable for cyclists depending on their level of expertise, are available as well as identifying off road cycle paths.

Free cycle training is also available for all abilities to ensure cyclists feel more confident on the road.

Mike Carlin, from Cheshire Cycles in Appleton Thorn, has stressed the importance of keeping your bike clean and oiled and checking your bike over before heading out.

He said: “The popularity of cycling has exploded this year so prepare for the worst and buy a helmet. Always check your bike over as brake blocks can become worn and tyres can crack.

“Wear protective clothing and kit yourself out with essentials like a pump, repair kit and carry money in a handy saddle bag.

“Book in for regular servicing as staying on top of this can highlight small issues before they become dangerous ones.”

To celebrate national Bike Week, Cheshire Cycles, who have been providing services for more than 10 years, is offering a service worth £60 to get you bike ready for the summer.

To enter answer the following question and email the answer to lauren.hirst@nqnw.co.uk or via post to Lauren Hirst, Warrington Guardian, The Academy, 138 Bridge Street, Warrington, WA1 2RU.

Which country does the Tour de France start in this year?

The deadline for entrants is June 26. Newsquest terms and conditions apply.

For more information on bike week turn to page....

The statistics Most accidents happen when the weather is Fine 87% Rain 9% Fine wind 2% Rain wind 1% Most accidents happen when the road surface is Dry 77% Wet 23 %