Letter: Rocky road for rural walkers and off-road cyclists

Sir: The most disconcerting problem I find with off-road cyclists is the almost invariable lack of warning of their approach. Several times, when my wife and I have been walking, either on mountain paths or rural roads, we have been aware of the approach of a cyclist only when he or she is immediately behind us. We have both been startled, but fortunately have not yet jumped into their path, although on one recent occasion my wife twisted her back, which was painful for several days.

Two or three times, my remonstrations with them about giving audible warning have been met only with offensive replies or ribaldry. What has happened to the bicycle bell, whose distinctive sound carries well? Hardly any bicycles seem to be fitted with them.

Yours faithfully,

P. S. FOX

Scarborough, North Yorkshire

9 May