SIR – After a prolonged absence from cycling to work following a cycle accident some 15 years ago, I decided to take up the cycle-to-work scheme offer made by my employers at the University of Worcester.

I found the roads were more congested than the last time I used a bike and in far worse state of repair due, I expect, to the greater number of cars and so on.

It would be unfair of me to make a great issue about the standard of driving as drivers have to put up with a more congested road system. There are, for instance, many more parked vehicles on our roads making vehicle manoeuvring more difficult and frustrating.

This in turn causes frustration and impatience and unfortunately, where cyclists are concerned, this can be fatal. Having said this, what shocked me more than anything was the number of people particularly youngsters, cycling without lights, high visibility clothing and don’t let us forget helmets.

Okay, I have to own up to not always wearing a helmet and do get stick from my wife.

Within the last couple of months at least two university members of staff have been knocked off their bikes and this helps to bring home the necessity for being seen and having your head protected.

Having had my say could we make a plea particularly to parents to make sure your kids are seen and head-protected.

STEVE SOUTHWICK,

Worcester.