I WOULD like to comment further on Mrs Whitehead's letter (BEN: February 8) with regards to road safety and motorised scooters.

I became the proud owner of one of these vehicles on January 8. It was only then I discovered the state of our roads and pedestrian highways. From leaving my home I have to use the main road (Higher Swan Lane) and cross to Daubhill before I can use such lovely and level pavements into town. I have tried many other routes and my chosen one is the best of these evils.

Not only do these serious "imperfections" make our journey perilous at best and, at worst, potential killers, it also causes a mammoth increase in our pain.

Before people suggest I stay at home, this vehicle has given me independence and has enabled me to take an active part in my community. Until the purchase of this vehicle I went to the supermarket once a week with my wheelchair and carer for two hours -- hurray.

I have had to balance the risks against the benefits and, needless to say, the benefit won, as all who know me will testify -- but many of these risks could be reduced.

Come on you people in your ivory towers, reduce these "barriers" and encourage more of us to have "social inclusion".

P Waite

Holmeswood Road

Bolton