As four mothers with children between the ages of four and 14, we read with interest your article about cycling on Dollis Valley Greenwalk (‘Path is too narrow to allow cycling’, Hendon & Finchley Times, March 19).

We are constantly being told by the Government, the press and the medical profession that our children are spending far too much time in front of screens, are too fat, are therefore storing up numerous health problems for later life and that they should be exercising more.

What better way is there of exercising as a family than going on a cycle ride?

Where do these ramblers and dog walkers suggest we take our children to cycle? Should we be cycling with children on the road?

Cycling is not allowed in Victoria Park, N3, yet we are continually bothered by dogs off their leads with owners who declare ‘don’t be scared, he/she loves children and never bites’.

You are allowed to cycle in Friary park, N12, but to get there from N3 you have to negotiate some pretty big junctions.

We are delighted that yet more of the Dollis Valley route has been made accessible to cyclists. We would rather take the risk of falling down the muddy bank into the very shallow brook than risk any of our children being knocked down by a car or of them causing a serious accident to other road users. Surely it is as important as it is for dogs and ramblers that our children get the opportunity to exercise safely?

As cyclists ourselves, we cycle along Longland Drive to pick up the Dollis Valley Path off Totteridge Lane. This section of the brook has a designated cycle path, yet we are always having to avoid dogs and their owners. Cyclists are definitely not the only people who need to be respectful.

Fran, Monica, Amanda and Caroline

Finchley