A cyclist snapped weaving through heavy traffic with a small child balanced on the back of his bike has been condemned by police.

The man, wearing a fluorescent jacket, sits astride the saddle of the BMX as the lad looks over his shoulder, perched on stunt pegs fixed to the back wheel.

The picture, taken by a worried onlooker at Preston Circus, Brighton, on Monday morning prompted outrage from cycling safety campaigners and police.

It is thought the unnamed cyclist was taking his son to school.

A red satchel can be seen hanging dangerously from the bike's handlebars.

A spokeswoman for Sussex Police said the man was committing an offence of dangerous cycling, which could lead to a fine.

Anyone with information should call Inspector Rob Leet on 0845 6070999 .