I WRITE regarding the recent overly-hyped "arctic freeze" - how many tins of soup have you got left?

I enjoyed the snow and was disappointed it disappeared so rapidly.

However, what alarmed me were the untreated, icy footpaths. I am in my forties and struggled to remain upright because the surface underfoot was so treacherous. So dangerous that I advised my elderly parents to stay indoors - they are fortunate enough to have my sister and myself to rely on.

But what about those people who have no one? I know a man in his eighties who, during his quest to buy essential groceries, slipped and suffered serious arm injuries.

This accident could have been prevented if footpaths, which are the responsibility of the council, were properly gritted. This despite the fact that the council receives ever-more council tax. Is the council unable to finance pavement gritting?

Perhaps a reduction in the amount spent on red-tape, bureaucracy and councillors' expenses would help.

If they need someone to do the donkey work they should look no further than those now serving a community service order or the young unemployed.

Problem solved!

Ms C. Richardson,

Osbaldwick Lane,

York.

...IN response to the letter about empty salt bins (January 29), I recall that when Siward Street became one-way, it was agreed that because of the incline it would be given priority for gritting during severe wintry conditions. This seems to have been forgotten and once again motorists have had to struggle.

B M Stardy,

Siward Street,

York.

Updated: 11:35 Friday, February 06, 2004