WITH reference to the recent article concerning Gareth Thomas and the footpath on his land.

I find it strange that Alan Cottam, an elected councillor, considers blocking up of this path, on land owned by Mr Thomas, should not go ahead because of its use by the general public.

Yet, when North West Water blocked off Guide and Fishmoor Reservoirs, which the general public of East Lancashire and beyond, had used as a footpath and public amenity for the past 40 years (and probably more), there was a roaring silence from Coun Cottam and his merry little band.

Not that I am suggesting that there seems to be one rule for the ordinary man and one rule for business. That would never do.

However, it does seem to me that as a precedent has been set by Blackburn with Darwen council in not challenging North West Water, Mr Thomas would have a very good case should he decide to challenge the council in court.

When he wins, as I suspect he would, then he would seem to have a good case against the council for stress, etc. The whole thing could turn out to be quite lucrative for Mr Thomas. I'd go for it, sir.

MICK PICKUP, Haslingden Road, Guide, Blackburn.