• CONTRARY to popular myth, we as individuals are far from being helpless in doing something about the current challenges of poisoned air, rising levels of obesity and smelly unpleasant neighbourhoods.

What’s the answer? Active travel. This means walking or cycling wherever possible. Many car trips could easily be done by bike or on foot; walking and cycling can be built into daily routines.

Neither activity produces pollution. Both get people moving, which helps weight loss. Hop over to Hackney to see for yourself the difference in liveable neighbourhoods where cars are controlled.

Where to start? Come to Freightliners Farm on Sunday, April 8, at 2pm for a Spring Cycle, a family-friendly, led ride round the borough. To find out more, go to cycleislington.uk.

Solving these health challenges starts at home with each one of us doing something positive to help ourselves and ultimately everyone around us.

EILIDH MURRAY
Address supplied