Cyclists cause a jam

Rush-hour traffic was held up by a cycling demonstration involving more than 120 riders in central London yesterday, writes Martin Whitfield.

It was held up last month and will be on the last Friday of every month, according to Critical Mass, a movement of cycling campaigners and environmentalists. Similar rides took place in a dozen cities including Manchester, Cardiff and Glasgow. More are expected next month.

Critical Mass campaigns for better facilities for cyclists, fewer cars and less pollution.

Patrick Field, a self-confessed cycling fanatic, said: "By the middle of the summer I wouldn't be surprised to see the numbers in four figures. We are saying `we are having a good time, what's your problem?' "