On my bike: Chris Heaton-Harris MP

Why do you cycle?

For leisure. I live near Pitsford Reservoir in Northamptonshire. It’s seven miles around it and I live a mile away, so I do a nine-mile circuit.

How far do you ride each week?

I’m a fair-weather cyclist, so if it’s chucking down with rain, not at all. If it’s half decent, I’ll go. I probably average once a fortnight.

Which of your bikes is your favourite?

I only have one, a lovely 12-year-old Giant mountain bike.

What do you always take with you when cycling?

Not much. I try to leave my phone at home because it’s an escape. It’s my time.

Who mends your punctures?

Pitsford Cycles, at the reservoir.

It’s raining: bike, public transport, or car?

I’d walk first, if I wanted to get some exercise.

Lycra or normal clothes?

Never lycra! You obviously haven’t seen a photo of me.

If you had £100 to spend on cycling, what would you get?

I’d have my bike serviced.

What’s your favourite cycle journey?

The Brampton Valley Way, an old Beeching closure rail lane. It’s a beautiful route. I go up to the Kelmarsh Tunnels – you can go through them to Market Harborough – then stop at the Stag Pub in Maidwell, where you can get soup and a sandwich for a tenner.

What single thing would most improve matters for UK cyclists?

Dedicated infrastructure