I FEEL that I must comment on the article in Thursday's (Feb 27) Adver headed 'Free Wheeling'.

I must say that I was pleased to read that our very own Mayor Stan Pajak gets on his bike every day to travel to and from work.

Stan's a man after of my own heart. I enjoy cycling to work every day and countryside trips at the weekend, so I fully support Swindon's Council's cycle network, and the many benefits it brings with cycling.

Lord Charles Bereford said: "Whoever invented the bicycle deserves the thanks of humanity."

At the present day the bicycle stands unrivalled as a means of healthy exercise and pleasure. The practical uses to which it may be put seem limitless.

I strongly disagree with Councillor Lister saying that the increased expenditure is a waste of money on the building of the cycle paths, and to say cycling as a means of transport has had its day is poor comment.

I see more and more cyclists riding now than when I first started in the 1960s.

The annual membership of most cycling clubs is at record numbers, statistics from the Cycle Touring Club's 125th year show its second highest membership ever.

Cycling is growing and Swindon's got it right.

I feel sure as time passes by more and more will join the growing numbers in this wonderful pastime.

Clive Alexander

Frilford Drive

Stratton St Margaret

Swindon