‘Don’t knock cyclists – thank them’

Most weeks there’s a letter knocking cyclists. Time for a balancing one?

Why are motorists never prosecuted for parking on cycle lanes? It’s very inconsiderate, dangerous (forcing cyclists out into the car lane) and illegal.

Why are motorists never prosecuted for passing too close to cyclists? The Highway Code specifies at least a car’s width, but few motorists observe this, so it’s hardly surprising that cyclists in fear of their lives sometimes resort to the pavements.

On paths and pavements marked for shared use by cyclists and pedestrians, why do many pedestrians neglect to even glance before wandering across a cyclist’s path? And why do dog walkers often completely block the route by walking on one side with their dog on the other side and the lead right across the middle?

Yes, there are some inconsiderate, dangerous and rude cyclists ... about the same proportion as inconsiderate, dangerous and rude motorists and pedestrians. Such is the human race.

But on the whole, motorists and pedestrians should encourage cyclists rather than criticise them en masse. By using their bikes instead of cars they are reducing congestion, reducing air pollution, reducing pressure on the NHS by keeping fitter, and generally making the environment a better place for all.

Don’t knock ‘em – thank ‘em!