IN view of the recent floods, when the rivers have subsided enough - next spring or summer - do you think it would help to lower the height of the river by dredging it as deep as possible? The soil removed could be used to build up the banks - like the Dutch do in Holland and the rest of the soil spread on low-lying ground. (It should make good compost). Perhaps too, some interesting archaeological treasures might be found? I know to dredge a river would cost a great deal but to try and build river protections of any kind will also cost millions!

Secondly, about the fuel crisis, motorists still haven't been given any real cut in prices. High prices affect us all! And when the lorry drivers look at what they have been offered will they in the future really be much better off?

Mr Gordon Brown has been very clever in concentrating on giving more help to the pensioners - which is much needed. But he, in doing so, has taken the heat off the fuel crisis!!

MARGARET LYDFORD, Orchard House, Collin Lane, Willersey.