I AM an older driver who has more than 100 years of family connections to Swaledale and my daughter still lives there.

I treat the road from Reeth to Muker with respect and care as it narrows the farther up the dale you drive.

I have noticed an increased presence of cyclists over the last few years which is good news for the shops and inns in the villages.

The problem occurs when a driver meets groups of cyclists on time trials – the narrow roads make overtaking difficult.

Oncoming cars add further problems. Driving up the dale for a relaxing day out has ceased and my last two outings have increased stress levels!

Last Sunday, there was a car rally and having six sports cars behind me, itching to overtake and then listening to the roar of high powered engines, did not make for a relaxing drive.

I urge cyclists and rally drivers to enjoy the beautiful dale but respect drivers who want a quiet day out.

Margaret Carney, Stockton