SIR — After reading in last week's Free Press of the new restrictions imposed on the Riphay Scuffle, such as an alcohol ban, no bar, no overnight camping, police and fuel inspections for red diesel in tractors used for towing vehicles to the event, I thought I might add a few pointers for a 'safer' event this year.

A speed limit of 5mph, all drivers accompanied by a qualified advanced driving instructor, no-one under the age of 50 to take part, if it rains and makes it too slippery then all vehicles must leave the track, all participating vehicles must have a current MOT certificate, and finally anyone caught enjoying themselves will be ejected by the usually non existent presence of the law (nowhere to be seen when my quad was stolen!) 

This is a typical knee-jerk reaction by the Health and Safety Taliban - these restrictions take away the whole spirit of the scuffle.

This is more than just a bit of fun, it represents the local community, it's a way of expressing its unique way of rural life, a few beers, loads of mud, an old banger to thrash around a field, a meeting of like-minded people enjoying themselves.

But oh no! We can't have the peasants enjoying themselves can we!

After all, "proper" hunting has been banned, farming is as difficult as it's ever been, low wages, high fuel costs, thefts from farms - and now the scuffle is the next easy target.

The tragic accident that ended with the loss of two young lads was a tragedy for the families and friends of the boys and I can only imagine the grief and pain that they must still be going through, but will the restrictions imposed this year actually make any difference?

Ade Clarke,

Exford.