I completely disagree with cyclists (adults... maybe older teenagers) using non-shared paths. Even shared paths are fraught with danger when the pedestrians have to cross the cycle bit (to both peds, and cyclists, as neither sometimes look correctly). This becomes even more dangerous when you bring e-bikes into the equation, plus the illegal use of e-scooters. I also believe the conditioning caused by cyclists continuing to use footpaths, instead of the roads, makes the average driver even more annoyed when cyclists are properly using the road, although don't get me started on the cyclists that refuse to use a perfectly good cycle path on a straight road with no junctions...
I also agree with SP and the appeal outcome. Someone who has a vision problem, and possibly some LD / cognitive impairment too from the cerebral palsy, even if undiagnosed, who is then surprised by a fast moving cyclist in their path is likely to react with a surprise, gross reaction. Just like if I came up behind you and shouted in your ear, I would expect to be clocked by your body or arms.