OVER the last couple of days the River Foss water level has been greatly reduced, leaving a large expanse of mud and debris.

This would have given the council or water authority a wonderful opportunity to remove some of that debris which has accumulated over the years, but unfortunately the opportunity seems to have been lost.

What a pity that the dredgers no longer work our rivers and keep the channels clear, thus allowing for a greater volume of water when the flooding occurs. But perhaps the upkeep of these vessels would be higher than the extensive and expensive flood barriers now in place.

Nevertheless, more frequent cleaning and clearing would eliminate the very unpleasant sight and smell of the past few days, and ensure there are no more such occasions.

Mrs M Hildred,

Huntington Road,

York.

Updated: 10:06 Tuesday, September 06, 2005