British cycling legend Chris Boardman has praised a Norfolk Police initiative aiming to keep cyclists safer on the roads.

Eastern Daily Press: Sgt Chris Harris from Norfolk and Suffolk Roads and Armed Policing Team. Picture: Victoria PertusaSgt Chris Harris from Norfolk and Suffolk Roads and Armed Policing Team. Picture: Victoria Pertusa (Image: Archant)

The Olympic medal winning athlete gave a push on social media to Operation Close Pass, which targets motorists who pass cyclists too closely on the road.

Boardman shared a social media post from Sgt Chris Harris, of the Norfolk and Suffolk Roads and Armed Policing Team, about the operation, adding: 'Well done fellas, should be countrywide and regular, a few forces are leading the way.'

An information event about Operation Close Pass was held at County Hall last November as part of Brake's Road Safety Week, following a similar event in 2017.

The operation – supported by the Norwich Cycling Campaign – sees officers stop offending vehicles and offer the drivers advice on passing cyclists safely, including the recommended overtaking clearance of 1.5m. Drivers who refuse the offer are given a Traffic Offence Report.