TEN years ago, I sustained life-threatening and life-changing injuries when, as I cycled round the Asda roundabout in Kendal, I was hit by a car. I spent eight weeks on traction in hospital in Manchester, and had to have two major operations.

Since then, I have needed to go to Westmorland General Hospital more often, which, since I started cycling again, involved re-visiting the site of my accident, a nerve-wracking experience.

I longed for a safe cycle route over the roundabout, so when I heard about the new cycle lane from Kirkbie Kendal School to Oxenholme, I hoped it would take this route.

Today was the first day I used the new cycle path to go up to the hospital, and it was a vastly improved experience, being separated from the traffic for the whole route.

I would like to congratulate Cumbria County Council for making this bold decision which makes Kendal a bit more cycle-friendly, and I encourage them to continue investing further in creating other dedicated cycle lanes in the town.

Rosie Whiting

Kendal