I would just like to respond to the letter from Kathy Gilfillan over the debate about the Go Ape site in Rivington (November 25).

As one of the many daily walkers there, I do think I have more say than most on the subject as it will affect me more than those who just visit the area once every blue moon.

I have no objection to anyone enjoying the countryside as they wish — whether they are cyclists, joggers, horseriders, walkers or others.

Most of them seem to rub along nicely for the majority of the time. However, the fact remains that the Go Ape site is not in a position where it can just rub along nicely with the rest of us.

It is situated between two paths in what was one of the most wooded and peaceful areas of Rivington.

I walk in Rivington to enjoy the tranquillity of the place and, if the Go Ape site is up and running, I am sure there will be plenty of noise from these human apes and traffic disruption along what is a small country lane.

It is fine that the adventure course is made from materials which “blend in well with the surroundings” but, strangely enough, I thought the trees which have been felled for this site blended in with the surroundings much better.

I also have doubts over just how well these people pretending to be Tarzan will blend in with the surroundings.

I agree that Lord Leverhulme did think “outside the box”, but I am not convinced that he would like the disruption that this particular venture is bound to bring.

Lord Leverhulme was at one with nature and I think he probably built his home high in the hills to escape from humanity now and again.

Were he here today, he might not be too pleased with the thought of these noisy human apes swinging through his trees. We’ll never know.

As for Kathy Gilfillan’s childish comment of “maybe Mrs Clarke wants Rivington simply for the snobs”, she obviously doesn’t visit Rivington very often because you could not wish to meet a more down to earth and friendly bunch than the regulars.

We might just find that the snobs turn out to be the ones who can throw around £25 for themselves and a couple of £20 notes for their children over the age of 10 to use Go Ape.

I wonder if these apes will be capable of picking their rubbish up after themselves, too?

Joanne Whitehead Manchester Road Blackrod