TOURISTS arriving at Irwell Vale with the intention of venturing into the surrounding countryside may appreciate the following information.

A newly-erected fence that runs alongside part of the original footpath beside the River Irwell between Irwell Vale and Lumb Bridge has barbed wire placed far too close to its top.

Underfoot conditions along this stretch can be atrocious at times and could result in a person stumbling and landing on the sharp wire.

The original footpath was noted for being boggy. That is why an alternative route was created a short distance away. Unfortunately, thanks to the farmer and his fence, the alternative route no longer allows public access.

Come on, all you hikers, are we to remove the fence, or risk injury and sink further in the mud?

D McDOWALL (Mr), Milne Street, Irwell Vale.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.