I WOULD like to bring to the attention of readers, and that of the local counci, the apparent use of a violent herbicide on parts of the public open space at Round Hill, Marlbrook.

Although some plants next to the path were already showing signs of chemical damage, in the course of a short walk I noted one dog eating the grass, one rabbit apparently doing the same (though it declined to be interviewed) and one man collecting early wayside fruit.

What consideration, if any, has Bromsgrove District Council - which is presumably the party responsible - given to the well-being of any of these?

Has it occurred to them that the usual effect of herbicides in these circumstances is to destroy the more delicate plants species and allow the more vigorous to re-grow and dominate?

Judicious cutting-back instead of the use of chemicals could have avoided these risks.

Organic

Marlbrook