READING of yet another tragic accident to a toddler, who suddenly ran in front of a moving car, and thinking of the even-greater tragedy of little Jamie Bulger, I wonder why the custom of keeping small children on reins seems to have almost died out?

So often, I see mothers with prams and a toddler running alongside with no restraint. Children are so quick, in a flash can be running ahead, or off the pavement. Likewise in supermarkets.

A campaign to bring back reins, or the seldom-used "wrist lead" would be a great idea for all clinics, playgroups, nurseries and so on.

M D WOODWARD,

Worcester.