TWO matters arise from the letters in SAM of August 18th: firstly the eruv.

The anonymous writer expresses exactly my feelings, and, I would add, the feelings of all my Jewish friends.

They feel that such a scheme would enhance division within the community,and could lead to anti-Semitic activity. One might ask those who want the eruv if they would mind those members of the Muslim Community having Minarets erected around Hale,with a Mezzuin issuing calls to prayer? I very much doubt it.

If they wish to abide by archaic law, the simple remedy is to employ a non-Jewish person to push the wheelchair, pram,or buggy.

Secondly, I was quite touched to see the letter from Hazel Carter, regarding her late husband's sterling work in trying to control the litter around Altrincham,Hale and Bowdon.

One would have thought that this is the job of the local council, but no doubt they will claim that such 'professional' litter removal would be too costly.

It seems that no expense, though, needs to be spared in digging up Railway Street/Stamford New Road, laying cobblestones where they were not needed, or the erection of an obelisk in the middle of the road.

Despite all the council's rather futile efforts, the number of vacant premises seems to be increasing. Perhaps if the council is trying to turn back the clock by laying cobblestones, it might try turning the clock back to Victorian times by way of the taxes and rents charged on these vacant properties, being levied at the rates of 120 years ago !

David Olliver, Altrincham