I REGULARLY cycle along the canal towpath from Feniscowles to Blackburn town centre to do my shopping.

I do this to make a small contribution to keeping cars out of a very congested town centre, to help reduce pollution and also for health reasons.

I found Councillor Fred Slater's comments about wanting to ban cycles from the towpath (LET, April 15) naive, unhelpful, unwelcoming and, from a councillor, irresponsible.

On the other hand, I found Councillor Andy Kay's comments helpful and positive. I am pleased to see fishermen, horse riders, walkers, joggers and cyclists on the towpath.

Canals offer a great opportunity these days for all sorts of leisure activities and these opportunities need to be increased and improved.

Most fishermen move their pole when cyclists or walkers are approaching. One or two leave them right across the path, but you just get off your bike and lift it over. So on yer bike, Councillor Slater.

MARTIN CHILD, Langdale Road, Blackburn.