I see the anti-cycle brigade are out, as is usual at this time of year.

The most bizzare and out-of-touch comments came from Janice Cranham, who says she conveys what the majority of taxpayers of Brighton and Hove think of the bike ride (Letters, June 24).

Firstly, what on earth have her taxes got to do with it?

Secondly, has she ever been down to the front and seen the thousands of Brighton residents she claims to know cheering in the weary riders?

They ride for charity - a charity she might someday benefit from. The people of the small villages we pass through along the route have no way of getting out on that day but, instead of moaning, they all come out and wave, cheer and serve food and drinks, especially those in Lingfield and Turners Hill.

Shouldn't we condemn those motorists who ignore signs which are posted weeks in advance and still try to drive in, instead of slagging off this brilliant event?

Can't Brighton and Hove City Council be brave and close the roads in the area of St Peter's Church/Old Steine for just one day? That's the part which causes all the trouble.

If London can host a marathon and the BBC can call it "a wonderful sporting event that raises millions for charity" during its commentary, why can't Brighton hold its head high and say the same thing?

Lastly, many people moan about cyclists on pavements and so on, but where does the law stand if I hit someone who is walking in the cycle lane on the seafront?

-Darren Callaway, Team Forfars, Forfars Bakery, Brighton