REFERENCE the letter from Gill Squires (November 15) about quiet cyclists:

Having an electric buggy has given me so much freedom this summer and I have been able to enjoy using the Granite Way with my husband, grandchildren and dog.

I have found it very alarming having cyclists with no warning suddenly riding past, albeit most pleasantly greeting me as they draw level or after they have passed.

It is true that cycles these days even for those that hear well are virtually silent. You do not hear the whoosh until they are passing you. Even the dog and the grandchildren have been taken by surprise by one suddenly passing at close quarters.

I would like to thank the gentleman who, riding along unheard behind, called out, 'Passing on your right shortly'. Even though he had space to pass it made me aware and I had time to pull the dog in tight beside me and warn the children if they had been with me.

Can I suggest that other cyclists might like to think about doing as he did? My worry is that I may turn across their path unintentionally and cause them to be injured or that the dog or child may run across in front because I have not had time to ensure they are out of their way.

Most cyclists are considerate with their speed and very pleasant and  have no intention of scaring someone but I don't think they realise how quiet they are and how disconcerting it can be to have someone appear beside you suddenly out of nowhere especially if you happened to be a lone walker with your back to them.

Judy Wilson

Sampford Courtenay