Brian Macdowall of Herne (Letters, July 9) complains Brighton is congested because we haven't widened our roads to accommodate more cars.

He asks if we have ever tried collecting groceries or children by bike. These everyday tasks are easy to do by bike and neither pollute the atmosphere nor contribute to congestion. You need a childseat or panniers. I've been doing it for decades.

I would ask him if he has ever bothered to walk or ride in Brighton when cars are restricted or less rampaging, such as the wonder day of the Tour de France, early on a Sunday morning, or during England games in the European Cup?

The air is sweet and the atmosphere peaceful. It's not just the fumes but the noise of cars that pollutes the atmosphere.

Some people don't have cars - older people and children, for instance - and they deserve to be able to walk or ride in peace and safety.

Mr Macdowall asks about getting to Gatwick with suitcases - but the railway line from Brighton runs right into the airport concourse and is quicker than parking your car in vast car parks that are a bus ride away from the terminal.

It is good for you and your elderly relatives, Mr Macdowall, to walk and even to carry your suitcases, if you haven't got wheels on them - it strengthens your muscles and bones.

Of course, it is much more pleasant to walk or cycle when there are fewer cars with their smelly, noisy engines.

There is a good bus and taxi service in Brighton but we need better cycle lanes and bike parks. The station has improved its bike park and shows how suited bikes are to the city. You could park ten or more bikes in the space needed by one car.

For a harmonious city, fit for all, we need fewer cars and more bikes.

Anne Barry

-Bristol Gate, Brighton