FOLLOWING the argument in The Argus (August 10) on cyclists versus motorists, as a delivery driver for a local chemist I see the problem from both sides.

The majority of my round is done by bicycle for the simple reason that round Hove it is quicker and easier by bike than by car.

I cycle on average 3,000 miles a year for the company, which keeps head office happy as it makes a considerable saving on my mileage claims. It also means I can indulge in chocolate bars and cream cakes without piling on the pounds.

In the past four years, I have been knocked off my bike once and had several near misses by idiot drivers who do not look.

However, the spokesman on behalf of the cyclist in The Argus displayed a very ignorant attitude to common sense road safety. It might not be illegal to ride two abreast on the road, but it does take a degree of stupidity and is highly anti-social towards other road users. As for complaining about dangerous junctions, the answer is simple. Get off the bike and push it across the road.

The long-term solution to both idiot cyclists and motorists is to put high- profile police officers back on the beat as they used to patrol 40 years ago when I was first posted to Brighton.

Back in 1970, the six main town beats were given 24-hour foot patrol cover, which not only solved the problem of illegal cycling and driving, but stopped a considerable amount of other antisocial behaviour and made the town safe for everyone.

Stuart Bower
Towers Road, Upper Beeding