WORCESTERSHIRE is very fortunate. It has two venerable institutions that can claim to be the "Oldest In The World".

First, we have your sister newspaper, Berrow's Worcester Journal. Founded in 1690, it is certainly old, but still vibrant and, hopefully, will be serving the community far into the future.

The other "Oldest In The World" is Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb.

As the oldest motor sport venue it holds a unique place in history and should be considered a national treasure. But it is in trouble.

Shelsley Walsh HIll Climb needs to raise a vast amount of money to secure the lease on the hill. If it does not manage, then it will close down and a part of Worcestershire's history will be lost forever.

I know it is not politically correct to desire the continuation of anything connected with motor cars, let alone high performance motor cars, but Shelsley Walsh is not a threat to the environment.

It is high-quality entertainment for spectators and drivers alike. It is a bringer of revenue into the community.

I hope businesses in Worcestershire will rally to the cause and offer to help raise the money to keep this venue open to the public.

We would miss "The Oldest Newspaper in the World" if it disappeared and we will certainly miss the "Oldest Motorsport Venue" if the money is not forthcoming.

JOHN GOW,

Droitwich.