I WRITE, devastated at the news that the retirement village in Middleton may now not go ahead as planned. I am devastated, not just because it looked such a lovely place to retire, nor just because it would utilise a run-down location in an otherwise nice area but for reasons of public health and safety.

With all the wrinklies safely ensconced in the one area with their own shops and facilities, I was looking forward to visiting Lancaster shopping centre on a rainy day safe in the knowledge that I would no longer risk getting my eyes poked out by the umbrellas of little white haired old ladies who weren't looking where they were going. No longer would I have to endure tripping over those funny little shopping bags on wheels as their ancient drivers roared out of shop entrances cutting me up with no indication whatsoever.

Most of all I was looking forward to driving in and out of town knowing that I wouldn't get stuck behind the old boy in the trilby, overcoat and driving gloves meandering along at 25mph in a 40mph limit in his Triumph Dolomite on a hot summer's day.

Please think again everybody...

the safety of the nation is at risk!

Name & address supplied