I WOULD like to respond to the article (Evening News, September 4) concerning off-road driving on Rosses Lane and Guises Lane, Wichenford.

I live in Worcester and am a member of GLASS (Green Lane Association), I am also a colleague of Chris Marsden who you quoted in the article.

GLASS exists purely to preserve ancient highways and byways along with the flora and fauna that they contain.

All GLASS members must sign a code of conduct that respects and preserves the beautiful and unique nature of many of these byways.

In fact, many lanes within Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire and Powys that had fallen into total disuse and become overgrown have been rescued and cleared by purely voluntary hard work of GLASS members, for the enjoyment of all (not just 4x4 drivers). Otherwise, these lanes would have been lost forever.

GLASS members also transport disabled members of our community along these lanes.

This is often the only way that a disabled person can get into the countryside to enjoy it.

Footpaths with their associated stiles and gates are impossible for say a wheelchair bound person to use.

Responsibilities

I would also point out that these byways are in fact roads.

They are legally open to all traffic and carry the same rights and responsibilities as, say the A44, for example any vehicle using them must be taxed and have a test certificate.

We never drive these lanes if there is any risk of damage. We drive these lanes very occasionally, once a month if that. Such use keeps the lanes open and available for other users whether human or animal.

PETER BROWNING,

Worcester.