RE the letter about pavement cycling by Kevin O’Brien (HAS, Oct 25), yes it is controversial, but I do it because every so often I read of a cyclist being killed using the roads.

That didn’t used to happen.

I wouldn’t be using my bike if cyclists weren’t allowed on the pavements, I’m afraid. So I go carefully. I don’t ride in the town centre. I give way to pedestrians and I use my bell when necessary.

It does save a lot of walking – I don’t have enough energy for now – and it stops overuse of my free bus pass.

There are young ones who do need to slow down.

Amy Johnson, Darlington