What an extraordinary response to a simple request to wear a helmet! Why are you all so anti-helmet? I've always worn one, not because anybody tells me I must, just that it seems sensible. It makes me more visible, keeps the rain off my head (and the sun off my bald patch) and might just save my head in case of any accident. I admit the first ones I bought in the 80's made the sweat run down my face in very hot weather, but the more recent ones are better ventilated and don't do this. Whenever, I get in the car, I put my seat belt on, whenever I get on my bike, I put my helmet on, its just automatic now.
As to the Presteigne event, I suspect Pete just seeks to promote a degree of safety, given that much of the route is on narrow paths and crowded streets and its quite possible that someone will fall off or collide with a lamp post or a car.(Petes son was collided with acar just after passing the finish line on the first event, and was badly hurt). I very much doubt it has anything to do with the police. In the first tour, my wife was knocked off her bike by an overzealous young man taking a corner wide, and she was knocked onto the pavement and injured her leg. Although she didn't bang her head, I was glad she was wearing a helmet. Not only that, but it enables you to decorate your helmet, adding to the fun of the event. I sported cow horns and my wife wore a duck on hers. But to refuse to take part in a fun event just because of a helmet rule just seems to be spiting yourself, I don't think anyone else will notice.
