AS a Tavistock-resident member of Sustrans, I would like to respond to the comments directed at the organisation by Paula Goddard (Letters, December 14).

Sustrans does not focus its policy on the 'serious cyclist'. Its aim is to increase cycle use throughout the community, seven days a week.

We want to get people who have cycled in the past back on their bicycles, and to encourage new recruits to this environmentally-friendly form of transport.

The ideal Sustrans route is safe for an unaccompanied 12-year-old. How many parents would be happy for their 12-year-old to cycle along the main A386? Indeed, how many parents would feel safe cycling along this road?

So, Sustrans and its partners in local councils try wherever possible to provide off-road routes such as the highly successful Camel and Tarka Trails.

Nearer to home, an off-road section of National Cycle Route 27 is nearing completion between Meldon and Lake, and the Plymouth to Clearbrook section, which has long been popular, will be extended to Horrabridge.

Tavistock has its own off-road fragment of Route 27 between Old Exeter Road and Crease Lane. In time these sections will be joined together by more off-road sections, and by using minor roads.

So why not use the road through Whitchurch village and across the moor as part of the route as suggested by Ms Goddard?

Well, firstly, it is rather hilly for a commuter route designed to appeal to new cyclists. Secondly, traffic associated with the Whitchuch Inn and the church often causes considerable congestion, making it dangerous for cyclists.

Thirdly, the 40mph speed limit across the moor is widely ignored so offers little safety benefit. And fourthly, it does not fit in well with the rest of the route, which it is hoped will eventually pass through Grenofen tunnel, and follow the old railway track to Horrabridge.

If Paula Goddard feels that the foot/cycle track installed as part of the rural gateway is an inadequate fragment, I would agree. But it's a start, and better than no path!

In my view, investment in cycling/footpath infrastructure in the UK is woefully inadequate. The situation is improving, but not nearly fast enough if we are to achieve a timely reduction in the environmental and human damage caused by excessive use of cars.

Peter Donkin

9 Chestnut Close

Bishopsmead

Tavistock