"People think cyclists have to be in Lycra, peddling fast, and that if you're just pottering about on your bike then you're not a real cyclist, but you are!" says Paul Donoghue.

It's this attitude that has inspired him to write 'When Cycling Was Fun', a book guiding cyclists around 21 country pubs in the Vale of Glamorgan.

Split into two routes, the guide features descriptions of the roads, the pubs and useful safety information.

"These are proper country pubs, i.e. they're not on main roads," explained Paul.

"You don't have to travel on major roads to get to them either, you can get to all of them just travelling on quiet roads.

"I know some people get nervous abut cycling on busier roads.

"I just want people to get out on these little lanes and realise you can have fun cycling."

Of course, Paul has visited each pub, to make sure they're up to standard.

"I've checked them all out, it was a very hard job!" he said.

"If you're visiting here the routes start in Llantwit Major so you can travel in via the station.

"You can do both routes in a weekend, or just pick and choose where you want to go."

Paul has funded production of the book, which includes a foreword by cycling author and radio host Jack Thurston, himself and is selling copies for £4.50.

But Paul says that if you promise not to visit a Starbucks ever again, he'll discount the price to £3.99.

"Of course, I can't enforce that, but it's because these pubs have been about for hundreds of years, and it's a shame that they're at risk of going bust, he said.

"We've got to support the local pubs, and the local economy altogether."

Copies of 'When Cycling Was Fun' are available at Cowbridge Book Shop, Cowbridge Bike Shop, Dog and Rider Boutique, Awesome Wales, and WG Davies.

You can also order a copy here.