I got the shivers reading that account, telegirl.

I completely understand you wanting to take a break from riding on the road - but OH WHAT A SHAME!!!!

Some of the things I have done to try and raise bike-awareness in car drivers...

Asked the local council to put up signs with bikes along our road (I am rural and it is 16kms to the nearest 'settlement' with a shop)

Talked to our neighbour, a traffic/police officer, and he has "had a chat" with a few locals on the road and drives his work car home when he can.

Asked the local school to pop occasional reminders in the school newsletter regarding bikes, and how many of the people on the local roads are children of the school, or children's parents/older siblings.

I really hope you can find somewhere safe to ride on the road, even if it means a drive.

Can you find someone else to bike with so you are more visible on the road?

Also, do you have long hair? If not, I suggest you make a fake pony tail and attach it somehow - research shows that people are more considerate of a cyclist when they believe the cyclist is female...

Good luck with finding a solution... I really hate to think you are being deprived of something you enjoy.