Letter: Travellers' virtues

Sir: May I point out that it is not possible for the New Age travellers physically to disappear?

Unless proper sites are provided for travellers, they are forced to use whatever land they can find. Travellers cost the taxpayer less than unemployed people who claim free housing; the cost of providing sites would be tiny compared with that of providing housing for the same number of people.

Taking to the road is a creative answer to unemployment and housing problems; unfortunately, as in any social group, crime is present. A minority of travellers have created a reputation which all must share.

Most travellers control their dogs and respect crops. New Age travellers are mostly peaceful people seeking to escape the violence and deprivation of the inner cities. Were the travellers to be met by more humanity, the result could only be co-operation.

Yours faithfully,

CIARA BOMFORD

Leeds

29 July