Sir, – If the roads between Leyburn and Ripon are too narrow and dangerous for cyclists as claimed (D&S letters, July 25) then they must be absolutely perilous for users of motor vehicles. I suspect that Mr Green is not so concerned for cyclists’ safety but is just unhappy to share the road space with them.

Most cyclists are very aware of the presence of other road users and will give way. Mr Green thinks sounding his horn at cyclists is a friendly gesture but most will find it very intimidating and he should not be surprised if he receives an industrial response in return.

I know a small number of people who complained about the Tour de France before it arrived and who, like Mr Green, continue to complain about it after it has gone. The vast majority of the many people I know embraced the tour, engaged with the tour and thoroughly relished the experience.

These are not business people concerned with making a profit from it; they are ordinary people who are not really cycling fans. They are now still talking about how much they enjoyed the spectacle and the community spirit of the race. They took pride in knowing that the eyes of the world were on this great region, their home.

Mr Green thinks he is in the “quiet majority” but I would suggest he is mistaken and his is now a minority view. Vive le Tour.

ROGER BURTON Thirsk.