I thoroughly agree with Don Graves (Road Splits for Path Users). The perimeter path around Richmond Park is completely unsuitable for use by cyclists and pedestrians; I should know because I am one of the boy racers Mr Graves talks of, albeit 44 years of age.
Any parent who takes their child on this path should seriously reconsider. Police, quite rightly, actively prevent cyclist using pavements, but this path is designated for cycling and no policing of its use will happen.
No matter how careful us cyclists are, serious accidents, and maybe death will occur on this path when a child, or a dog, or an elderly person, or even an alert and able-bodied jogger strays into the path of a cyclist; boy racer or otherwise.
But please don't ban cyclists from the path, this amenity is a great source of pleasure for many of us.
We are not permitted to stray from the path, so you should be quite safe if you just amble anywhere else in the park.
Many club cyclists use the roads within the park as a training ground, but I, and many others would not consider doing so.
Personally, I cycle 25 miles a day on London roads, to and from work, but in my leisure I choose to cycle off-road.
This is an excellent cycling facility, but one must get up very early on a Sunday morning to enjoy an unimpeded ride that is not fraught with danger.
Walkers, ramblers, and joggers have the whole of the rest of the park to enjoy, please let us cyclists have our little bit of fun.
CLIVE OLIVER Avenue South, Surbiton
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article