Police in Surrey are being applauded by cyclists on Twitter after producing a video that shows motorists how to safely overtake people on bikes.

The video, which lasts just over one and a half minutes, uses animation, real-life footage and text to educate motorists on the issue.

We’ve made a little video to help drivers plan and overtake of a cyclist safely.

The same advice would be relevant for overtaking a horse rider. Passing too close is dangerous and scary. You could be dealt with for driving without due care and attention: 3 points + £100 fine. pic.twitter.com/3TrBWJkuZ2 — RPU - Surrey Police (@SurreyRoadCops) December 13, 2017

Since it was tweeted shortly before noon today, the video has been retweeted more than 200 times.

A number of people congratulated the force on the video, including the Metropolitan Police Service's Cycle Safety Team.

Nice good — Cycle Safety Team (@MetCycleCops) December 13, 2017

One Twitter user asked if they could produce a video explaining why it is often safer for cyclists to ride two abreast, something that many motorists mistakenly believe is against the law.

We’ve discussed it. We need a drone and a group of cyclists so a little more challenging, but it’s pencilled in to develop! — RPU - Surrey Police (@SurreyRoadCops) December 13, 2017

In the replies, the officers behind the account also clarified some issues relating to cyclists' use of the road.

Yes, most cycle lanes are not maintained suitably for a road bike, so cyclists will not use them because of the risk of punctures, pot holes and debris. — RPU - Surrey Police (@SurreyRoadCops) December 13, 2017

Mark you have raised many points here… 1. Cyclists can use as much of their lane as they wish, they are a vehicle using the road.

2. It’s not illegal to ride 2 or 3 abreast, most of the time it makes overtaking them easier

3. Riding too fast - as in breaking the speed limit? — RPU - Surrey Police (@SurreyRoadCops) December 13, 2017

Let’s deal with the real issue of drivers doing the same (and a lot worse) first.

The majority of cyclists obey the rules. Motor vehicles pose a much higher threat level. We wouldn’t ignore an offence which we witnessed on patrol, from any road user. — RPU - Surrey Police (@SurreyRoadCops) December 13, 2017

Surrey Police have proved to be very proactive on Twitter in dispelling misconceptions about the law as it relates to cyclists, and in October invited a road.cc reader who had submitted a video shot in the county submitted as part of their Near Miss of the Day series to send them the footage.