IF ANY driver is left visibly shaken following a drive from Tadcaster to the Hopgrove roundabout, the solution lies in a refresher driving course (Letters, June 14). These can be obtained from an approved driving instructor or the local advanced driving organisation, the York Advanced Motorists.

But in the same edition you report on the new signs warning of pedestrians crossing the A64 between York and Tadcaster (New warnings on A64, June 14). This sort of action shows a far too casual approach to the problem when the answer is simple and relatively low in cost.

Earlier this year, you reported on the measures taken at Eckersley in Nottinghamshire and suggested it might be adopted at Bilborough. In producing this article your reporter drove right under the ideal solution.

Just a few miles south of Ferrybridge, on the A1, a footbridge gives pedestrians access from the Wayside cafe on the southbound side to a bus stop on the northbound side. A barrier prevents people crossing and there are no gaps for traffic to cross over. Instead it must continue to the next available exit. That is what is needed at Bilborough. And all gaps must be closed.

To suggest a 50mph limit, as some have, is to shrink from addressing the fundamental problem. This is that no vehicle should be allowed to cross from one carriageway to the other and pedestrians must always be separated from vehicles.

J C Potter,

Eastfield Avenue,

Haxby, York.

Updated: 09:19 Saturday, June 16, 2001