OUR beautiful North York Moors are under threat because of an EU ruling that is meant to protect continental spinach growing (The Press, August 8). A herbicide that keeps bracken under control is now banned in order to protect spinach. In the spirit of our former hero, Popeye, we should tell the EU where they can stick their edict. George Winn-Darley should ignore this stupid ruling and carry on as normal in preserving the heritage on our doorstep, and do what is necessary to keep the balance. If the Blutos from Brussels come calling, please direct them to this neck of the wood. They would get more than a flea in their ear.

Geoff Robb, Hunters Close, Dunnington .