AN angry father has branded some of Bradford's roads as "death traps" for cyclists after his teenage son was badly hurt in an accident caused by a gaping pothole.

John Ciesielski said it was only a matter of time before a cyclist was killed in New Works Road in Low Moor.

He said the road was in a bad state, badly worn, sinking in places and, when wet, treacherous for motorcyclists and cyclists.

His son was injured when he was thrown from his bike after hitting worn grates and ruts in the centre of the road.

The expensive new bike he was riding could be a write-off.

The 18-year-old was riding along New Works Road and turning right into Dealburn Road when he was thrown from the bike, rolling over several times, on Thursday., February 12.

Two motorists stopped to help but the rider was left with cuts to both arms, grazed upper leg and a pulled shoulder.

"If he had not been wearing a helmet he could have been killed," said his father.

"Roads like this are death traps."

The impact caused the bike's gear equipment to snap, the frame was bent and the back wheel was buckled.

"I use this road regularly and have noticed it is in a very bad state due to the number of freight companies and delivery vehicles hammering it away," said Mr Ciesielski, adding that a 'dangerous' new pothole has appeared at the bottom junction of New Works Road with Cleckheaton Road.

"This road needs repairing," said Mr Ciesielski. "Any temporary repair would be ineffective because of its heavy haulage usage."

He said the road should also be regularly checked for diesel spillages which can make the surface hazardous.

Ward councillor David Robinson (Ind, Wyke) said: "The Council does make great efforts to repair roads where there are particular problems, but the recent frosts have caused a lot of damage to roads throughout the area.

"I sympathise with the family over what has happened and advise Mr Ciesielski to take this matter up with the council as the authority is insured for such incidents."

A spokesman for Bradford Council said: "We have received a report of problems around New Works Road and we are investigating."