ALTHOUGH it may not be possible to stop every mindless idiot from jumping off a bridge, it is obviously important to continue to warn people of the dangers of rivers and alcohol and in trying to prevent more tragic accidents.

The York Rescue Boat is a welcome response and could helpfully be joined by another patrol boat in future.

Restrictions on riverside drinking areas (eg Kings Staith) are clearly needed. Lockable riverside access gates, closed at dusk and raised or railed bridge parapets could be helpful where appropriate.

However, but for the actions of police and helpful passers by this years river fatalities could have been much higher.

Alexander Ogilvy, Lindsey Avenue, Acomb, York.