Geoff Brazendale is correct when he states that people supporting the opening of the Waverley Bridge have no concept of the vandalism caused by youths in the past to the bridge.

As the city councillor at the time for the rural area on the north side of the bridge, I would add even worse was the effect it had on those living in the small village of Stainton.

I still remember, perhaps in the early 1980s, having a phone call from a very upset farmer with cattle in the large field adjacent to the river and viaduct.

Youths were crossing over, some on small motor bikes, others on foot and deliberately riding round the field to cause mayhem among the cattle. That was just the start.

City council officers contacted British Rail requesting that the bridge be closed, but there was little action, despite constant reminders.

In the meantime youths were going into the village and some of the residents felt threatened.

Youths were also starting to vandalise the bridge parapet by levering the stone blocks into the river.

One day I was told of a walker who was on the footpath that goes under the bridge and just as he was about to emerge from under the bridge a large stone block fell on to the path in front of him.

It was this, if I remember correctly, that made British Rail close off the bridge using rather flimsy materials; gaps soon appeared in it, but at least it stopped the motor bikes.

Personally I would like to be able to walk over the bridge again, but it is in a very isolated place.

Measures must be put in place to prevent the mayhem that took place in the past if the bridge is to open.

After all, the quality of life of those living in the area must come first.

Finally, I wonder if the police have been approached for their views. If so what are their views?

I seem to remember that they were of little or no use in stopping the vandalism.

Brian Porter
Stanwix
Carlisle


Got something you want to say? Need to comment on a burning issue or get something off your chest? Write to The Editor, The Cumberland News, Newspaper House, Dalston Road, Carlisle CA2 5UA or email letters.carlisle@cnmedia.co.uk