IN response to Stuart Wilson's letter ("It's a mad world," November 4), there is a simple answer to why so many police officers were involved in the search for the driver of the vehicle involved in the collision on the A64 near the Buckles Inn - our primary responsibility of preserving life.

When the vehicle was found there was clear evidence inside that the driver was seriously injured. This, coupled with reports from the public that an apparently 'lost' man with serious head injuries was wandering in the area, led us to initiate a search in open countryside.

There was every possibility he may have collapsed and been in need of urgent medical help. We were so concerned about his condition we brought in a helicopter from a neighbouring force to assist. Fortunately, the driver was traced and received the necessary medical attention.

There have been national cases where the police have been criticised for lack of action in similar circumstances. I fully support the decisions made in these circumstances and ask Mr Wilson whether his view would have been the same had this been his father, brother or son?

Andy Bell,

Acting Operations Commander

Central Area, North Yorkshire Police, Fulford Road, York.

Updated: 10:34 Friday, November 07, 2003