l I AM writing to express regret at the indiscriminate cutting of verges in the district, which is a waste of taxpayers’ money and a form of ecological vandalism.

There are huge swathes of the countryside verges and areas in parks where at least some of the grass could be left throughout the summer so the wild flowers can grow and set seed.

Not only would this enhance the environment, which the councils have a duty to do, but it would also save money and cut back on fuel usage of machinery.

In Abingdon in particular, there are large areas of grass land near The Abbey that are mown so tight that no wild flowers can be seen. This area is close to the nature reserve and the river and would provide an excellent habitat for wildlife.

It would appear the local council is not happy unless it is cutting vegetation into non-existence, concreting the whole area over and planting non-native species that are of no use to our wildlife.

And why are the councils still cutting well into October when there is little or no growth? Oxford seems to be slightly better – I have seen some very good colonies of flowers in some areas.

There are other areas belonging to flats and Housing Associations that are not utilised by the residents – even if they left half of the area to naturalise, it would assist with the preservation of our plant heritage.

There is far more than can be done in small ways to enhance our butterfly and bee populations. We cannot continue with our over-tidy existence and expect wildlife to survive.

ALAN STOCK Stert Street Abingdon