MARTIN Calvert and Nicholas Skaife have just completed 200 hours community service. But this was not a judicial sentence imposed on them for wrongdoing. It was an epic act of selflessness that has benefited everyone in Thornton-le-Dale.

One elderly villager says he feels liberated after the dynamic duo cleared an overgrown footpath. That gratitude will help to recompense them for their back-breaking labours.

North Yorkshire County Council, which failed in its duty to maintain this path, should acknowledge Nicholas and Martin's fantastic achievement by keeping it clear. Now the pair are at a loose end. May we mention that the A64 is in urgent need of dualling?

Updated: 10:47 Thursday, August 30, 2001