SIR - On a recent bike ride from the start of the Leeds - Liverpool canal to Shipley I was pleasantly surprised at the excellent surface of the towpath. Asphalted all along the nine miles to Dobson locks at Apperley Bridge, it was devoid of pot holes, giant puddles, mud etc.

Unlike beyond Dobson locks, it was like coming off the M1 onto a badly maintained B road, not a pleasant ride at all.

I know through experience of cycling on this towpath it is a poor state of repair all the way to Skipton. I am no big fan of "Big Brother Leeds", but credit where credit's due, when it comes to maintaining the towpath.

I feel it is incumbent on Bradford council, to put pressure on canals and rivers trust, or any other governing body responsible for maintaining this stretch of towpath to properly maintain to a decent standard, for the benefit for cyclists and walkers alike.

James Barraclough, Thornmead Road, Baildon