Sir, – In reply to Derek Whiting’s comments on cycle routes in the Stokesley area, (D&S letters, Oct 5), we would like to point out that the funding for the repair of the cobbles in Stokesley High Street is from a different source to that of the cycle project. The lead story in the Focus leaflet is about the maintenance of the cobbles, so we don’t understand his concerns. Under the terms of the lease it is the district council’s responsibility to repair the cobbles.

The cycle route project is the top priority of the Stokesley and Villages Community Regeneration Group. This is a multi agency group, which is an excellent example of different agencies working together.

This group has decided that an off-road cycle route is its top priority. People should be encouraged to cycle, especially in a recession, but cycling on main roads is not safe.

The route from Great Ayton to Stokesley will enable local people to cycle between the two towns for recreation or work, as well as providing students at Stokesley School a safe cycle route to school.

Couns BRYN and JACKIE GRIFFITHS

Meadowfield, Stokesley.