I HAVE never read such a bigoted load of nonsense as the remarks of Councillor Adrian Shurmer on traffic calming (Letters, July 15).

He says it was put in to create havoc. These can only be the words of an extremist trying desperately to justify his position.

The fact is, Coun Shurmer, all other remedies were considered and some tried. But, as we all know, nothing short of physical restriction will slow traffic down.

And, yes, we are catering for the minority of idiots who have been educated enough to pass their driving test.

I also see Coun Shurmer makes much of his being a professional driving-awareness consultant. Perhaps he could offer some of his knowledge to the younger drivers instead of pandering to populism.

I would be grateful if he could tell me exactly what qualifications he has that make him more knowledgeable on traffic calming than road engineers.

I am afraid Coun Shurmer will have to come to terms with the fact that, out here, he has to prove his case and realise we do have a right to question his authoritarian attitude.

I also see that he accuses County Councillor Richard Toon (Letters, July 2) of defaming his position as a councillor although, during the last local elections, the Adrian and Phil show was not beneath stooping to the gutter when it suited.

C. REID (Mr), Lomax Street, Great Harwood.

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