THE news that cycling cuts the risk of cancer by half has given cyclists another reason to be insufferably smug, it has emerged.

Though little encouragement is needed for cyclists to act holier-than-thou attitude about their method of getting from A to B, a study by Glasgow University has enabled yet more self-congratulation.

Cyclist Martin Bishop said: “Oh wow. So it’s science that I’m amazing now.

“Far from just being a basic means of transport, riding a bike now cures cancer, prevents heart disease, boosts you to the very top of the moral high ground and I wouldn’t be surprised if I can’t heal with my touch.

“I shouldn’t think this counts for all cyclists. The casuals who rate Bradley Wiggins and think you can cycle in just, like, jeans and trainers will still get cancer. They’re not even interested in my £600 Rohloff gear hubs.

“But those of us who ride along single-track country roads two abreast wearing Lycra covered in logos will definitely be too holy to be touched from disease.

“Don’t beep me. It’s perfectly legal.”