Sir – Further to my letter (October 2) on psychedelic roads, two other observations have since cropped up, more so by the crater that recently disrupted the M25.

1: Why are repairs always done when it is wet or raining? Does it not occur that the water acts as a laminate that separates the old tarmac from the new so further rain will loosen it and any frost blow it off?

2: Why do not the highways department have better quality control over the utilities when the latter rive up the roads?

Why is there no penalty if the repair or back-fill subsides, or the edges break up round the manhole or drain?

Again, the roads through the village here are a good example of poor workmanship, poor quality control and inspection, and quite frankly a complete waste of time and money.

Manholes and covers are either proud or sunken as further surfacing is not matched to their level or the items not raised, trenches that were dug across the road have subsided (surely after years of doing such jobs the right level properly packed could be achieved?), and old repairs have lifted. There are no footpaths, so walking is a hazard especially in the wet.

Similarly, cyclists take their lives in their hands, more so if there is a puddle hiding a cavity. Motorists jolt and lurch along, and tractors and trailers rattle and bang more than necessary. Please wake up and get it right with some pride in simple workmanship.

Rev Toddy Hoare, Holton