THE recent fatality on the Manchester Road highlights the very real risks facing cyclists on the trunk roads into and out of Knutsford.

Whilst road safety has improved for the occupants in motor vehicles they are deteriorating for the most vulnerable road users, pedestrians and cyclists.

There is an urgent need to address this problem as cycling is becoming more and more popular as a cheap, efficient and environmentallysustainable means of getting about, as a recreation and as a sport.

Whilst experienced cyclists will plan routes to minimise the use of trunk roads, sometimes they provide the only route to their destination.

These roads need to be made much safer as a matter of urgency.

Cllr Gardiner has called for a reduction of the speed limit on the A roads into Knutsford and this is to be welcomed and will help to make these roads safer for everyone, not just cyclists.

Just as important is the need for a 20mph limit on all roads within Knutsford which would have the added benefit of reducing the air pollution which is seriously adding to the morbidity and mortality rates from heart and respiratory conditions.

Manchester Road itself could accommodate a shared pedestrian and cycle path for a fraction of the costs that are incurred in expensive road improvements that accommodate excessive speeds and generate faster, more dangerous traffic.

Our leading competitive cyclists have told the government that the best way to honour their achievement is to spend continental levels of money on improving life for everyday cyclists.

They are asking for five per cent of the transport budget to be dedicated to cycling, a rather modest sum compared to the largesse available to other transport schemes.

Knutsford is a popular destination for cyclists yet there have been almost no attempts to make it more welcoming.

We have a few extra cycle stands and a few cycle signs.

There are no advanced stopping lines at traffic lights and I cannot recall a single cycle lane or cycle path.

Paul Thomson Town Lane Mobberley