SIR - I would just like to highlight the poor condition of the canalside footpath near Lowesmoor.

On Saturday, January 12, at about 3 pm I was returning from a shopping trip in town.

Despite wearing stout walking boots I slipped on the slimy footpath under the railway arch, and fell into the canal, complete with two heavy carrier bags.

I screamed for help.

Fortunately two kind passers-by came to my rescue.

I was very cold, wet and in shock and couldn't get out of the water by myself.

I would like to thank them for their assistance.

I am fine now, just very shaken; however, I dread to think what the consequence would have been for a young child or someone elderly or disabled.

I'm not sure who owns the footpath.

At this time of year it is frequently very muddy, as the surface is very pitted and just under the railway bridge there is a lot of green slime at the edge of the path caused by water dripping off the arch.

In freezing weather there are often large icy puddles, which present a big hazard to cyclists and pedestrians.

Please do take care.

FIONA SAMPSON, Worcester.