A keen Prestatyn cyclist has labelled a local authority an “absolute nightmare” for failing to clean up hazardous waste alongside a cycle path.

Dave Price, a graphic designer, has had to alter his usual route to work in Rhuddlan, and leave 15 minutes earlier each day, because of leftover thorns after routine pruning by Denbighshire County Council (DCC), on the A547 between Rhuddlan and Prestatyn, has left the cycle path unusable.

Mr Price, 38, said: “I’m having to leave earlier to avoid that path as it’s a hazard. Even if a runner fell over, they are going to get spiked by some really big thorns.

“I’ve not used the cycle path for over a week, I’m forced to use the roadway with a lot of unhappy motorists beeping at me and driving very close to me at speeds of over 60mph, as the cycle path is unusable.”

The thorns are a recurring issue for cyclists in the area, as the stretch alongside the cycle path - approximately a tenth of a mile - is cut in three sections with the waste left in the way of cyclists for as long as six weeks before being cleaned up.

Mr Price added: “DCC are an absolute nightmare. They do the same thing with A525 between Rhuddlan to St Asaph too.Why don’t they just do it all at once and clean up after themselves?

“Last time I used the route I saw three people on my way to work pushing their bikes and noticed they all had flat tyres. I’m a member of a few cycling clubs and they all have the same concerns.

“If you sit on your bike through them you’ll get a puncture, which could lead to the tire coming off, getting caught in the brake pads and throwing you off your bike.

DCC have been asked for comment.