Letter: Home on the range for mountain bikes

Sir: I don't wish to become embroiled in the mountain bike debate, but I must correct the statement made by Richard Nelsson (letter, 12 May) to the effect that four-wheel-drive vehicles and motorcycles have made a mess of paths such as the Ridgeway.

The Ridgeway is not a path but a right of way open to all traffic, which includes motor vehicles of any type. A lengthy and expensive public inquiry in 1993 confirmed this and also that damage caused by recreational vehicles was insignificant.

Sadly, mountain bikers are about to suffer the onslaught of the rambling fraternity who genuinely believe that theirs is the only legitimate form of recreation in the countryside.

Yours faithfully,

VINCENT BOTTOMLEY

Oldham, Lancashire

12 May