One of the main things you can do to increase your safety is to take up space on the road, and not let cars or other vehicles squeeze you into the pavement. But it’s easier said than done when you feel pressure to let them pass by.

“There are stories women are told about what they can and can’t do. One story is being inconspicuous, not taking up space, blending in – cycling is the antithesis of that,” says Berry. “You have to take up space; you have to prioritise your safety. It means I have to be bolshier than I naturally would be: that is an empowering, even addictive, thing. It’s also a source of joy and adventure.”

As Berry spoke, my mind flashed to my new jumper that says ‘We are the traffic’ on the back. In the last eight months, I’ve attended five protests, including the global Fancy Women Bike Ride, where I wore a floor-length, gold sequin skirt. I’ve cycled to Glasgow during COP26 in the pouring rain, on my clunky old bike that I’ve had since I was 18. On my Christmas list is an air horn (to blast at angry or careless drivers) and a helmet camera. None of this equipment is necessary to ride, but it makes me feel safe.

Fairy lights, drum ’n’ bass and homemade cookies: “How cycling in a pack helped me to take up space on the road”