Why criminalise the cyclists?

I AGREE with the comments and anxieties of 'concerned citizen' (Letters: July 15) and would like to add my own. On a Friday afternoon in mid-June, a group of 60 cyclists rode around the town centre for about an hour. In line with all the latest Government recommendations they demonstrate, for little more than an instant the enjoyment to be gained from using this most environmentally-friendly mode of transport. Increasingly, we are told about the advantages of cycling, and encouraged to give it a go. But, when this amiable bunch take this good advice, and advertise to all what a cycle-friendly place their city could one day be, the police emerge in huge and intimidating numbers. The cyclists are treated as if they are a menace to be monitored and controlled. Meanwhile, the Government calls on people to use their cars less. We are increasingly reminded of the pollution, congestion and damage to communities that cars create. Yet, day after day, people continue to emerge from their homes, get into their cars, and proceed to block our streets. They place pedestrians and cyclists at risk, disrupt communities, and erode the quality of life for us all. Motorists repeatedly and inevitably get in each other's way whilst contributing to a range of problems that affect everyone. And what do the police do? Absolutely nothing! Everyone knows motorists cause congestion while cyclists free up space. All politicians are learning, albeit gradually and at different rates, to applaud the bicycle and condemn the car. But while those who police our community criminalise the cyclist and condone the motorist, what hope is there of making our city a healthier, happier and more humane place to live?