SINCE C Haslam seems to be drawing me into a verbal volley on the 'runners v. dogs' theme, which has rattled on for a few weeks now, I must respond to her brilliant suggested solution that us runners should send off a ringtone when approaching a dog-walker.

Okay, so let me get this right; every time I run past a dog (could be every 50 yards or more remember..) I need to get out my phone (which I don't take with me because it will fall from my pocket... oh, and I often don't have pockets), fiddle around with menus and send off a ring tone at the right time and volume to alert a dog I'm coming! So as I don't get bitten by an (admittedly) unpredictable animal?!

Shall I bring a little bag with me and pick up their poo as well whilst I'm running past?!

Fantastic! I've got some other ideas too to help everyone co-exist harmoniously. Why don't we non-smokers carry own own little clean-air supply bag that we can get out when we pass a smoker.

Or perhaps carry an armoured shield round in case we encounter someone with a knife? I might even run in an armoured vest in case I'm target of an assassin. Yes, It's fine that it's my responsibility to work around the leisure pursuits of others.

I'd be interested to know the thoughts of others about the ringtone idea because if I need 'educating about the reactions of dogs' then C Haslam could certainly do with some homework around the civil liberties theme.

To Mr or Mrs 'Name and address supplied' who suggests runners say 'excuse me'. I would have to shout it from a distance to give the dog/owner proper warning.

I do, however, agree with them about give and take, and I really try and give as much as I can by slowing down, often walking and ALWAYS saying thank you when someone moves to the edge or stops and waits for me to pass.

Sarcasm over, C Haslam and myself probably agree that we all need more consideration for others and to always remember that we are all as 'important' as each other.

In that respect I thank her for bringing the issue into the fore and I'll do my 'bit' and try a little harder to show consideration to all.

Mr M. Harrison