IN reply to R A Pearce.

Firstly, I don't have any political motives in asking for calming measures in Sapling Road and Smethurst Lane. He says: "It causes me aggravation on my way to work because of driving up and down Sapling Road."

It sounds like he takes pride in his driving. Then, why doesn't he take the sensible route from Daubhill Station, up St Helens Road to Salford Road and on to Walkden? Is it because six sets of traffic lights have to be encountered on St Helens Road, I wonder? The difference between his route and the route I suggest is 3/10ths of a mile (I've measured it).

Sapling Road really has become a rat run since the bus lanes were introduced on St Helens Road. Something should be done before an accident occurs. It has now become a very dangerous road to drive or live on. I don't believe my road should become a "private preserve" (R A Pearce's words). Sapling Road and Smethurst Lane are residential and both carry traffic similar to a main road.

All types of vehicles are using the roads, causing damage to parked vehicles. I have had to replace my offside mirror four times in the last few months. I will campaign for road humps because drivers will not have any thought for the residents and will continue to use the roads as a racetrack to get to their destination. I suppose it's a case of "I am all right, Jack".

F Hayman

Sapling Road

Bolton