WHILE there are those who feel that the uncut grasses and wildflowers on the verges this year are a worryingly unsightly development, we would urge everyone to consider the positive implications of this for wildlife.

Of course, maintaining long grasses along the verges must not be a safety hazard. Where this is happening the verges should be cut as a matter of urgency Elsewhere, leaving the grasses long, and wildflowers intact until the seeds have set, is a welcome step to the improving of well-being of wildlife. Anything that can be done to reverse the dreadful decline of birds, mammals, insects, trees and plants, due, in large measure, to habitat loss, must be a priority as well.

In combination with the carefully timed cutting of hedges, the proper maintenance of the verges can only bring substantial, and very necessary, benefits to those habitats.

JUDY SEYMOUR On behalf of Golden Valley Fish and Wildlife Association, Peterchurch

I JUST wanted to say how beautiful the verges are looking, covered in wild flowers.

I and many friends are pleased that the council decided to save our money, by cutting verges less and in doing so, saving these precious areas.

The flowers look lovely and benefit birds, small mammals, bees, moths and butterflies, many of which are in decline.

I think the issue of road safety has been overplayed. Uncut verges are being used as an excuse for bad driving.

HELEN NICHOLLS Eardisley