SIR - With reference to Barry Drinkwater's letter (January 17) about the footpath around Pitchcroft.

The reason it is partially closed on race days is for your own safety.

Part of the public right of way was through the stable area, and people, with dogs as well as themselves and their offspring who are given a free rein, can be a hazard to the horses and themselves.

As a part-time employee, I have quite a lot of hassle from such pedestrians.

When the floods are up, where do you go then?

The public footpath is not closed all day on these days. It is about two hours before the first race and an hour or so after the last race - a total of five hours.

D J WHITEHOUSE, Worcester