Self-restraint

SIR, - Mr Howard Palmer's letter (Herts Advertiser, July 3) about speed limit signs near Wheathampstead deserves a response. Without arguing the merits of police action regarding speeding motorists near the village, I have to contend that the premise that a modern car needs to accelerate - literally increase speed - hard to climb a modest hill or it might stall is plainly nonsense.

Hopefully not many motorists attempt to negotiate the roundabout in question at 60 mph - although strictly permitted - and although the ensuing gentle rise towards the village may require a bit more gas to maintain speed or even gently accelerate, the speed restriction sign is evident enough and for a purpose. It is not placed there for the inconvenience of brake-shy motorists but presumably that the urban boundary is hidden shortly beyond the crest, with residential junctions immediately to hand - not least a popular crossing for walkers, cyclists and equestrians. Inconsiderate motoring cannot be justified by lack of alertness or personal schedule.

As a fellow sufferer from the "fast-is-best" syndrome on Piggotshill Lane, Harpenden, I would welcome self-restraint in such matters but one can hardly criticise the police where constant abuse is evident.

Incidentally by far the simplest and most-effective way of conveying the correct message would be to have the 30mph sign earlier - not more signs as suggested, please - immediately on leaving the roundabout, necessitating only modest acceleration if any and one could hope, encouraging a much more economical way of driving. But that might equally be considered nonsense by headstrong drivers.

DOUG NEVELL,

Barnfield Road, Harpenden.