In response to the letter in the GUARDIAN regarding nuisance cyclists. I feel that cycling should be encouraged rather than just the opposite. I agree with the gentleman that cycling should be safe and that cyclists should be encouraged to wear reflective clothing, helmets, lights etc.

Let's not forget that cycling is one of the healthiest forms of exercise, which has proven to reduce illness, reduce stress and promotes a longer and healthier life. How many of us sit in front of the television watching the Royle Family and see an uncomfortably familiar scene.

From the ecological perspective, cycling is one of the very few sustainable forms of transport, i.e. it does not use up any of the world's resources and does not pollute our fragile environment. None of this can be said for motoring.

One of the reasons so many cyclists are on the road is because there are very few off-road cycle routes available. From my experience, Warrington is better than most towns with the Trans-Pennine Cycleway and permission through its many parks.

We should be following the example of our continental cousins and be building more safe routes for cyclists. With regards to the costs of cycle routes most adults will already be paying road tax as they own a car and the younger element who don't own a car today certainly will one day.

So, Sunday drivers put away those car keys, feel good, look good and get ON YOUR BIKE.

IAN CLARKE

Edward Gardens,

Woolston