County Cllr Gordon Hook, Newton Abbot South, of Forde Park, Newton Abbot, writes:

In response to your Twickenham Road correspondent (15/11/13) cycling is a) not a party political issue. While details may vary, as far as I am aware all parties have their strong supporters of cycling. b) it is probably the fastest growing physical activity in the UK and c) it needs to be both a recreational activity and a commuter opportunity, both between and within settlements.

The health benefits are surely accepted by everyone. My generation thought nothing of cycling many miles a day to and from school, but today cars clog our roads in the half an hour before and after school with parents ferrying children.

Of course there are some valid reasons for that, but a consequence is that the health of the nation via beneficial exercise is in steady decline. The air quality and, therefore, our health also suffer as a consequence of the ensuing pollution.

We are enduring an epidemic of breathing related illnesses; there is a link.

If your correspondent has not enjoyed the benefits of using a purpose built cycleway may I suggest that he and all others do so?

Cafes, restaurants, pubs and the village shop are the obvious economic benefactors but they are by no means the only ones. The Exe Valley Trail provides a great local example and doubles as a recreational facility for cyclists and walkers and a vital commuter route.

So the completion of the Teign Estuary route for cyclists, walkers and those with disabilities is a high priority for me. Is your correspondent suggesting ramblers should pay for their recreation?

As air quality declines and waistbands expand so as a nation we must examine lifestyles and ways of encouraging safe physical activity. If your correspondent's argument is extended to its logical conclusion then no investment would be made in stimulating either the economy or healthy physical recreation.

I believe it is a local councillor's duty to attempt to do both for the sake of residents' physical health and the local economy.

Obesity is a ticking time bomb in terms of NHS costs. Encouraging physical activity, which the medical profession most certainly does, will contribute significantly to diffusing that time bomb.MORE LETTERS IN OUR DIGITAL EDITION