LAST week I received a letter from the county council informing me that all public rights of way are being reopened.

On the same day it was announced that there were 11 new cases of foot and mouth disease.

From now on anyone from the many infected areas of Great Britain can walk through the pastures of this county, the only injunction being "If you meet any livestock, walk away from them".

MAFF tell us that the infection lasts for at least three weeks.

Either the county council have taken leave of their senses or more probably the Government have interfered in a political move to gain popularity for the general election.

This makes a complete mockery of all the efforts the people of this county have made and the patience they have shown, ensuring that the disease has so far stayed out of our countryside.

Gill Kent

North Dean

High Wycombe