WITH regard to the "Bewdley Grand Prix" (Letters, May 18), this kind of behaviour goes on in most towns in this country.

The authorities do not care because "there have been no fatalities".

Is it not true that traffic laws exist to prevent fatalities? When I started driving, as a teenager, the police were always around to see that no illegal road racing took place, and I seem to remember that the penalty for "racing on the road" was an automatic three-year driving ban and a heavy fine.

I'm sure that law still exists, so strategically placed video-equipped, unmarked police cars could put an end to this in a matter of days!

Apart from the danger and nuisance value of these activities, each and every one of these vehicles probably burns more fuel in a 24-hour day than I burn in a month and car insurance is void if a driver is considered to be taking part in any illegal road race.

I have no prejudice against fast driving. I am a former rally driver, but I do believe there is a time and place for everything and common sense should tell a driver where and when it is safe to drive fast.

Properly organised motorsport is much more satisfying and safer for everyone than showing off in towns.

RICHARD WIGNALL

Stanklyn Lane

Kidderminster