Neither for nor against the use of 4x4s on green lanes or byways, I would like to point out a couple of issues.

Firstly, it's my understanding that only vehicles that have a current MoT, are road taxed, and for which the driver is insured can use such routes. For all intents and purposes they are still a public road.

I have noticed on many occasions that both trail bikes and quads are being used illegally on the Ridgeway, some by children not old enough to hold a driving licence.

The damage to the surface needs to be looked at very carefully. It's easy to blame 4x4s, but a study should be carried out to back these claims. A great number of the huge ruts are caused by agricultural heavy plant using the route to tend land adjacent to it.

On claims of wildlife being disturbed, I have found no evidence of any impact on wildlife, either by walkers or 4x4s. I spend many hours in the area photographing birds and animals, from deer to meadow pipits. The only time I have seen any animal harassment was when a member of the public allowed dogs to stray into a field and worry sheep.

I think a little common sense and study of both walkers' and 4x4s' impact on the Ridgeway is the way forward, not jumping to ban minority groups. I'm sure any findings would reveal the way forward in preserving this ancient right of way for everybody.

MPs had little regard for the Newbury bypass and the hundreds of acres of land lost at Twyford Down in Hampshire, not to mention the over-development of Swindon. I'd ask those MPs concerned to bring in one of the government agencies and concentrate on facts, and not a one-sided argument that lets one group dictate the fate of another. The countryside is there for everybody to enjoy, so let's enjoy it together in a manner we can all be happy with.

Clive Moulding

Home Farm

Highworth