6. Write to your local paper

Whether or not local papers truly reflect the views of the electorate in any representative way, few candidates will ignore what they say. The letters page may be an especially compelling read for them but, unfortunately for cycling advocates, it’s not beyond the realms of possibility that a rant about cyclists will, at some point, meet their eye. So, write something positive, let the editor and all readership know why life’s better by bike, and that tomorrow – with a supportive council/administration –could be different.

What’s more, you can take this action from the comfort of your own sofa. Here are some top tips from Duncan Dollimore, Cycling UK’s head of campaigns:

a. Know your publication

• Familiarise yourself with your paper’s audience and the type of letters it publishes. • You can use the generic address for letter submissions but, if you can find out who edits the Letters Page, try to make contact directly. • If you’re a local campaigner and this is the first time you’ve written in, introduce yourself to the editor, explaining who you represent. If your letters are up to scratch, they may approach you for comment in future as well.

b. Be local

• This is your local paper – they want your thoughts on what’s relevant to the patch they cover and where you live. You can, of course, bring in the wider picture, but do all you can to make what you say resonate with and for your community.

c. Be topical and timely

• Hang your comments on what’s on the public’s mind – elections ‘22, in this case.

Cycling UK’s manifestos, one for each of the four UK nations, may be a good place to start: cyclinguk.org/elections-2022

• Your letter stands an especially good chance if you’re responding to an article, comment or a previously published letter. Reference this in your letter. • If you’re responding to something that’s already appeared in the paper, do so in a timely matter. It’s no good addressing points made a fortnight ago: news moves on.

d. Be concise, focused and truthful

• The Times is notoriously strict about the length of the letters it publishes. Your local paper might not be so rigid, but learn from the nationals and be concise, aiming for no more than 250 words (it’s much less for the Times). With space at a premium, fewer words improve your chances –and make your message more powerful. • Make one point, not several. • Don’t lie or generalise – back up your point with facts (see: cyclinguk.org/statistics).

e. Be persistent

• Don’t be put off by failures. Letter writing takes time to perfect, but even perfection won’t guarantee publication.