RECENTLY I cycled from my home on the east side of Worcester to a restaurant on the other side of the river and returned the same route later that evening. I left home in daylight and returned in the dark.

Downhill one way and uphill the other but no challenge if you use an electric bike. My bike is small. I can fold down the handlebar stem and push the pedals upward to reduce space for storage. Marketing this vehicle as a folding bike pushes the boundary of the word ‘folding’.

The route is cycle friendly. I feel safe because I only travel a short distance on London Road. This road can be challenging owing to the number of cars that exceed the speed limit. Being a car driver myself and so, having to drive this road frequently, I more often than not find a gap of several hundred metres between me and the preceding car.

London Road is not a pleasant walk either. Fortunately my way to the city centre takes me through side roads but the most efficient way for me to reach Worcester Bridge and the city’s west side is to follow London Road.

Approaching Sidbury the narrowing pavements and heightening buildings create a noise and dirt tunnel. Leaving the traffic lights by the Commandery some drivers are tempted to speed up the hill.

What an agreeable ride this part of Battenhall is. Interesting buildings, wide roads and many residents able to park their vehicles on their drives ensuring good visibility for me. My route to Cherry Orchard is cycle friendly except the cut through between St Dunstan’s Close and Cherry Street. This narrow path calls for single file walkers and dismounted cyclists.

Once clear of Cherry Street, I was able to cycle to and through Cherry Orchard Park, over Diglis Bridge and, with just a brief stop to check traffic on Bromwich Road, I easily reached my destination.

The park has a good wide cycle and walker-friendly tarmacked path linking the park with the nature reserve.

On arrival at my destination, I searched the extensive and well laid out and marked up car park for a cycle rack. The owner has not provided cycle parking.

Perhaps cyclists’ business is not wanted. However, like all vehicle owners, I need to park my bike securely. I dragged my bike up through a hedge and lent it against a lamp post to which I d-locked it.

The rear wheel rested in a car park space.

It was good that the abundance of spaces meant I was not denying a motorist a parking slot.

Enjoyable dinner with my girlfriends. Returning home in the dark with my two small bike lights has never been a challenge.

The city’s street lights are generally adequate.

Side roads with parked vehicles are the main obstacle. The cars and vans cast shadows hiding the pot holes, cracks and other potential risks on my route.

Cherry Orchard nature reserve is unlit making it a good environment for wildlife. There was enough of a reflection from the light-coloured tarmacked surface for me to see my way safely to the park.