I WAS surprised by the contents of the picture on the front page of the Citizen last week, reporting a cycle protest against the Heysham M6 link.

It showed Cllr Emily Heath, obviously leading the group, but I noted that of all the cyclists on show only one was wearing a safety helmet.

On a demonstration in the city centre at a time when the traffic was chaotic, this was a very poor example to set to the younger generation who would see adults of a supposedly academic standard not showing how to ride in relative safety.

We are all aware that when accidents have happened to cyclists the helmet has helped to lessen injuries, and has in fact saved lives.

I know also that wearing a helmet is not compulsory - but that it is advisable for obvious reasons.

I would have thought, therefore, that as we are often urged to get on our bikes by certain sections of the community they would at least take the sensible option and use a safety helmet at all times themselves.

Cllr Sheila Denwood, Lancaster.