I AM becoming increasingly dismayed at the rudeness of some cyclists using Tatton Park.

As a pedestrian with my dog, I sometimes feel like I'm taking my life in my hands when I'm using the road that winds it's way through the park.

As a resident of Knutsford, I am very lucky to have such a wonderful country park on my doorstep. During these winter months however, the ground conditions aren't always conducive to dog walking and can be a trifle muddy to say the least.

I was walking on the side of the road and my dog was on the grass verge playing.

There was a young family just behind me with their children and dogs having a nice day out.

Their dogs were not on leads but were, in no way, causing a nuisance to anyone.

The next thing I knew, a speeding cyclist screeched to a halt just past me and swore – telling me to get my dogs on a lead.

There was no need for this language and the young family looked as shocked as I was.

I have come across this kind of behaviour several times now in Tatton Park from cyclists who seem to think they own the road.

Cars have to adhere to a speed limit of 20 mph through the park, which I feel should be substantially reduced, so why don't cyclists?

They need to realise that Tatton Park is a haven for dogs and their owners, young children learning to ride bicycles and people just wandering around admiring the beautiful scenery.

It is not the Manchester Velodrome and should not be used as such.

Lord Peter Holt Knutsford