A CYCLIST has called on bus companies to relax "ludicrous" rules which forbid bikes from being carried onto their vehicles.

Self-employed Louise Pinkney was denied access from First York's number 12 and Coastliner's 843 on Thursday at Askham Bar when she tried to get on with her racing bike.

The 45-year-old had intended to travel into York to get her bike fixed but was forced to carry it into the city.

She said: "York is a cycling city and people are being urged not to use cars.

"We are one of the biggest cycling cities in the country and we can't take them on buses. It's ludicrous.

"The fact is, if you don't have a car and you need your bike fixed, how are you supposed to get into York?

"I'm absolutely flabbergasted people aren't allowed to take bikes on the bus."

Miss Pinkney's bike broke while she out riding, but was told a bike shop in York could fix it if she took it to be repaired on Thursday.

Her car was already off the road due to a broken exhaust, forcing her to catch a bus.

"The Coastliner driver said he was not allowed to take bikes because of health and safety but I don't understand that because my bike didn't have a front wheel that works," she added.

"There was lots of space in the priority disabled section and I understand why he didn't let me in there, but I could've just stood in the baggage area.

"I offered to get off the bus if someone got on with a pram but the driver didn't let me."

A spokesman for First York said it was their policy to only allow bikes onto their buses if they fold as they can be stowed safely.

A Coastliner spokesman added: "Unfortunately, owing to space constraints on buses we are unable to convey any large or bulky items for reasons of customer safety.

"We cannot permit the aisle to be blocked or restricted as this may prevent people being able to leave the bus quickly in an emergency situation, and there is a risk of pedals and handlebars causing direct injury to other passengers getting on or off.

"We are able to carry folding bicycles in carry-cases and other items such as suitcases safely in our luggage racks however.”