The below letter from the SNJ (September 19) is the latest in a debate about cyclists using Stroud’s canals. Read the previous letters here: bit.ly/2xqfNj4

THE first ‘anti cyclist’ letter, published July 25, was based upon the writers misconception of the towpath as a footpath.

Of the 20 or so online responses from both cyclists and walkers, the most helpful simply outline the need for increased respect and consideration.

Since being injured in a car crash, it’s been a struggle to find any form of pain free exercise.

Cycling has been a Godsend - and words simply cannot express how grateful I am for the existence of the towpath.

Please let’s not pigeonhole people into the ‘green thug cyclists’ and the ‘frail and elderly’ walkers.

Many people have hidden trials, unseen vulnerabilities and disabilities.

2016 Police statistics indicate 18,477 cycling casualties in the UK, whereas cyclists rarely injure pedestrians, despite common sharing of towpaths and other tracks.

There is virtually nowhere a local cyclist can feel truly safe, or avoid breathing endless toxic fumes.

Sadly the surface of the Stroud-Nailsworth track causes extreme vibration and juddering on the bikes I have tried, therefore the only place to ride safely is the towpath.

It seems none of the online responders have encountered problems on the scale described by the original complainant.

However, some do concur that there are a small number of dangerous speeding cyclists.

This can be frightening for both walkers and other cyclists.

Hazards are also caused by a minority of dog walkers - some bring several dogs without a lead and have no intention of preventing them from leaping where they will, including into the path of a bicycle.

There are a few others who appear insulted at the use of a bell, as if it is a command for them to leap out of the way, rather than a polite request to pass.

Of course they would be equally furious if a bell were not used.

We should all remain aware that others have the right to use the space too, and should act in such a way as not to intimidate, block or endanger.

Perhaps indeed we need a ‘code of conduct’ placed at a few points along the path.

It used to be called ‘good manners’.

Please let none of us deliberately or inadvertently ruin for others this wonderful outdoor space we ourselves so much enjoy, and which is being beautifully restored and brought back to our community by the vision, selfless dedication and hard work of people in our community.

Helen Wace

Stroud